Significant controversy has surrounded the use of psychologists as consultants to military commanders in the interrogation of captive enemy combatants. The evolution of ethical guidelines has rapidly brought standardization and guidance for the growing numbers of psychologists participating in these operations. This article recounts the integration of professional psychological resources in selected military operational units. It also relates the evolution of such resources and the development of ethical guidelines for psychologists supporting interrogation. Finally, the article advocates for the continuing role of psychologists in the provision of consultation to help ensure safe, legal, ethical, and effective military interrogation operations.

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Operational psychology has remained under pressure from its critics. Arrigo, Eidelson, and Bennett (2012) proposed a split of operational psychology activities into 2 categories: "collaborative" and "adversarial," on the basis of their concerns that certain professional activities are unethical and inappropriate for psychology practitioners. Arguments to separate these activities are examined along with the authors' recommendations to bar psychologists from practicing in areas deemed "adversarial" by the Arrigo et al. criteria. Implications for military, government, public safety, and industrial psychologists are discussed. The applicability of the American Psychological Association's (2010) Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct is also addressed.

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This article is about a niche area of coaching: the performance psychology of working with elite performers in military special operations. It provides an overview of the history, settings, and client population, and it summarizes the research-proven interventions used by psychologist-coaches who work to help enhance the performance of these already highly capable military members and teams. Highlighting the skills required for effective application of performance psychology and some of the pitfalls that can render some consultants less effective, the article includes examples and explanations of applications of psychological principles.