Knapp and Vandecreek (2001) Is a Qualitative

¶ … Knapp and VandeCreek (2001) is a qualitative article with somewhat of a literature review. There are no formal reports, tables, graphs, or content related to a case study or research study. There is valuable information regarding the context within which the article will consider the ethical issues in personality assessment within the field of forensic psychology. They offer valid examples and spend time clarifying definitions and jargon related to the issue. This is not a quantitative article; it is a qualitative one. Knapp and VandeCreek provide context for the research questions and conclusions in addition to offering examples and counterexamples. The article discusses why ethics should be forensic psychology overall. "Ethical Issues in Personality Assessment in Forensic Psychology" is part exposition, part qualitative research, and part literature/contextual review.

This particular piece of writing is about the evolving role of the forensic psychologist as the expert. The article seeks to identify and in some ways troubleshoot the ethical situations that may arise as a result of this emerging role for forensic psychologists. It was surprising to read that psychologists argue within themselves regarding whether or not they should be permitted to testify as expert witnesses in a court of law. I thought testifying was all a part of the job, yet the authors make this point and another that as part of most doctoral programs, psychologists do not receive preparation or training in this area of the profession, which is becoming more common practice.

"Ethical Issues in Personality Assessment in Forensic Psychology" continues by providing examples of situations that psychologists would normally encounter as part of their professional practice, where there are easy mistakes to make and to avoid regarding ethical conundrums. The authors repeatedly refer to the ethics code by the American Psychological Association (APA) as a stable reference for any psychology professional or student to grab a mental foothold on. This is an effective strategy as the examples provided in the article where a psychologist can find him/herself in an ethically tricky situation vary. What remains consistent is how the situation has guidelines in the Ethics Code.

Knapp & VandeCreek bring up important issues for the entire field of psychology. Ethics is psychology is very important. This article's intent seems to be to inform and prepare psychology professionals for common situations where ethics come into question or play. Knapp & VandeCreek use the article as a kind of warning and form of preparation against mistakes that are costly to the psychologist as well as others whom the psychologist may be providing services.

Knapp & VandeCreek's major findings are that the forensics may be rewarding or exciting, but it comes with its fair share of ethical risks for psychologists. The best preparation for the risks is to be aware of them, as the authors outlined over the course of the article. The findings were supported with numerous examples and relevant references to respected literature.