Code of Ethics for Psychology Research and Practice in Zambia

Abstract

This chapter discusses the development of the code of ethics for research in, and the practice of, psychology in Zambia. The chapter first provides a historical national context of the code of ethics initially identifying psychology as a health-related field and later developing its own ethical code of conduct for practitioners and researchers under the umbrella of the Psychology Association of Zambia (PAZ). The code of ethics is discussed as having initially being modelled after the British Psychological Society’s code of conduct with some of the elements and standards being adapted to the special circumstances of Zambian society. Key features of the code of ethics for research and practice in the Zambian context are highlighted. The particular ways in which these were influenced by the country’s history and culture is also discussed, highlighting both structural and social factors as playing a significant part. Finally, the significance of the ethics code to psychologists and related professionals and researchers in the country is discussed, together with its practical implications and efficacy in contemporary Zambian society at large.