Report Example on Psychological Malpractice in Australia

Introduction

Malpractice or misconduct by psychologists occurs when they violate their duty of care to the public. In Australia, psychologists' registration (APA) was put in place to prevent psychological practices and promote the duty of care. The registration ensured that psychologists are fit for practice by putting in place proper mechanisms (Greyner & Lewis, 2012). Nonetheless, the breach of duty and summary complaints show a certain level of misconduct. Such misconduct outcomes and prevalence are usually contained in summary reports of annual tables.

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Poor Communication

According to Grenyer and Lewis, the complaints presented in the table include sexual violations and poor communication by a professional. According to this article, sexual offenses by therapists range from sexual suggestions, touching, and intercourse. The research shows that men were more likely to engage in boundary violations than women (Greyner & Lewis, 2012). Sexual violation misconduct leads to client distress, suicide ideation, substance abuse, and depressive symptoms. As per the table, the authors suggest that patients complain of poor communication; the ramifications include confusion, dissatisfaction, patient breakdown, and increased stress levels. Generally, the research also shows that male complaints are 2.5 times more likely to attract complaints than their female counterparts (Greyner & Lewis, 2012).

These areas can be avoided by the board counseling practitioners, deregistration of incompetent practitioners, regular supervision from experienced practitioners, maintaining premises open only at business hours, and putting ethics above clients' needs. Lastly, Lifelong professional development to reduce malpractice while reinforcing professional behaviors and attitudes.

Conclusion

The contemporary role of psychologists involves working with people under distress. Their roles also include maintaining an intimate and confidential relationship with the client (ACCA, 2010). Their functions face shifting demands, exposing them to occupational stress like burnout and even vulnerability to trauma and stress. These occupational hazards are heightened by poor self-care, overworking, professional isolation, poor boundaries, and neglect of personal problems and needs. Enhancing personal life is important in maintaining a professional experience (ACCA, 2008). To overcome this, psychologists need to maintain a proper work balance, rest, and play. Psychologists should also consult with other professionals while developing realistic expectations for their workload (ACCA, 2005).

References

APA’s Advisory Committee on Colleague Assistance (ACCA). (2005) Tips from Practitioners on Finding Work-Life Balance. Retrieved from:
https://Www.Apaservices.Org. https://www.apaservices.org /practice/ce/self-care/balance

APA’s Advisory Committee on Colleague Assistance (ACCA). (2008). Professional health and well-being for psychologists. Retrieved from:
https://www.apaservices. org/practice/ce/self-care/well-being

APA’s Advisory Committee on Colleague Assistance (ACCA). (2010). Keeping Psychologists Healthy. Retrieved from: ttps://Www.Apaservices.Org.
https://www.apaservices.org/practice/ce/self-care/acca-promoting

Grenyer, B. F., & Lewis, K. L. (2012). Prevalence, prediction, and prevention of psychologist misconduct. Australian Psychologist, 47(2), 68-76.
https://www.researchgate.net/profile /Brin_Grenyer/publication/258206853_Prevalence_prediction_and_prevention_of_psychologist_misconduct/links/5af4bcd60f7e9b026bcd89c4/Prevalence-prediction-and-prevention-of-psychologist-misconduct.pdf.