More questions than answers: Ethical considerations at the intersection of psychology and generative artificial intelligence.

Abstract

Psychology has changed considerably over the past several decades in response to technological advances. Changes to the profession accelerated during COVID-19, a time during which there was a rapid increase in the use of cloud-based virtual collaboration platforms (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams) for telehealth services as well as virtual teaching and research activities. Technology continues to advance swiftly, and the introduction of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly generative AI (genAI), is creating profound changes in all aspects of society, including the psychology profession. With these changes come questions about how to practice ethically as a clinician, as a teacher, and as a researcher. In this article, we explore the ethical principles and standards of most relevance to genAI use in the activities of psychologists (clinical, teaching, research) across settings (private practice, hospitals, colleges/universities, research centers). Ethical issues and questions are presented within the context of the current American Psychological Association's Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct (2017), which is under revision. Recommendations are provided for approaching ethical concerns amidst the rapid technological advances that are changing the way psychologists do their work.What is the significance of this article for the general public? Psychologists' use of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) can benefit society by, for example, increasing access to mental health services, improving diagnosis and treatment planning, advancing psychological science, and supporting education and training. However, ethical challenges exist. This article explores the potential benefits and ethical challenges of genAI within the psychology profession and offers recommendations for incorporating genAI into psychological practices in ways that promote positive, and avoid detrimental, outcomes for society.