Instilling ethics in I-O: The responsibility of graduate training programs

Abstract

In Watts and colleagues' (2022) focal article, the authors demonstrate the relevance of the APA Ethics Code for the field of I-O psychology, while also highlighting some key deficiencies, including those pertaining to I-O trainees; "The code is silent regarding its relevance to students" (Watts et al., 2022, pg. 25). In this statement, the authors were suggesting that a revised Ethics Code should explicitly clarify the extent to which it applies to students and should include more references to ethical situations students may encounter (e.g., academic integrity). We extend this statement to also point out the deficiency in the code regarding how to properly train graduate students in ethics. A relevant and revised Ethics Code can only help guide I-O psychologists if they have proper education and training around it. Accordingly, we respond to two of the questions posed by Watts and colleagues (i.e., questions #3 and #6).Who is ultimately responsible for ensuring that I-O psychologists are sufficiently educated about navigating ethical dilemmas (e.g., APA, SIOP, training programs, supervisors, employers)? In response to this question, we argue that the onus of responsibility falls, in large part, on I-O training programs. Others within and outside of psychology have taken a similar stance that educational institutions have a responsibility to instill and develop students' values around ethics (e.g.,