A survey of psychologists' opinions on aspects of confidentiality

Abstract

A questionnaire was constructed to sample clinical psychologists' opinions on aspects of confidentiality as they relate to their work with adult clients. The aspects covered were general confidentiality issues, the rationale for confidentiality, the manner in which the limits of confidentiality are set, what these limits are, danger to a third party, client rights, records, group therapy, legal factors, privileged communication. Psychologists were also asked to outline the area of confidentiality which had been of most concern in the six months prior to the survey. The results are presented and discussed in terms of their relationship to previously published studies and articles, and to statutes and ethical guidelines currently operative in New Zealand. Implications arising from the survey for the training of psychologists, clinical practice, and future research are outlined.