What is the primary responsibility of a psychologist regarding informed consent?

The primary responsibility of a psychologist regarding informed consent is to explain the therapeutic process and risks. Informed consent is a foundational ethical principle in psychology that ensures clients are fully aware of the nature and purpose of the intervention they are about to undergo. This involves providing clear information about the treatment process, the expected outcomes, any potential risks involved, and the client’s right to withdraw consent at any time.

This information empowers the client to make an informed decision about participating in therapy, thus respecting their autonomy and promoting a collaborative therapeutic relationship. By thoroughly explaining the procedure, psychologists help clients understand what to expect and ensure they are comfortable and willing to engage in the treatment process.

Other options, while they may be relevant in certain contexts, do not reflect the primary responsibility of psychologists regarding informed consent. For instance, ensuring clients understand treatment costs is important, but it is secondary to the need for clients to be informed about the therapeutic process and associated risks. Obtaining consent from family members can be necessary in certain situations, particularly when clients are minors or unable to consent for themselves, but it is not the psychologist's primary responsibility. Similarly, making decisions on behalf of the client contradicts the principle of informed consent, which prioritizes client autonomy and self-determination.