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This site (Compendium of Codes of Ethics from National Psychology Associations Around the World) gathers codes of ethics for use by researchers, clinicians, instructors, policy makers and organizations developing or revising their own codes of ethics. All are welcomed to utilize and benefit from the efforts of colleagues in other parts of the world. 

Psychology shares certain values, principles, and standards that are embedded within these codes (see parallel project Developing a Universal Declaration of Ethical Principles for Psychology). However, readers will also notice that some principles, standards or statements are unique to particular countries, made explicit through the language used in the codes. Readers will also notice that codes differ in terms of their structure and content, with some shorter and focusing on aspirational statements, and others lengthier and emphasizing greater detail about the nuances of psychological work. These differences may reflect local concerns, legal acknowledgement of the profession within the country, or stem from discussions in the development of the code itself.

We also hope that this site will encourage individuals to develop an interest in research on ethics from a global perspective. Although there have been a number of professional presentations on ethics from an international perspective, covering such issues as psychological testing in the internet age, ethical dilemmas among psychologists cross-culturally, and a range of clinical issues, the literature is scarce and would benefit from broad and sustained attention.  

This site has been developed under a project begun under the auspices of the 2007 IUPsyS Executive Committee and IUPsyS President Prof. J. Bruce Overmier. The codes listed here were obtained from a variety of sources. Some are available on websites of their respective national organization; others were solicited directly from national associations or their members. 

We anticipate continual updates to this site as the collection of national codes continues to grow. If your national organization has a code of ethics that is not listed here, or has one that has been updated, please contact the Project Director, Dr. Mark M. Leach, University of Southern Mississippi [Email Dr. Leach] 

We welcome comments and suggestions. It is our goal to provide the broadest range of codes, available in their original language and translated into English. The codes presently posted are in English, either in translation or because it is the language in which the code was written. As with all translations, wording may not be exact with respect to the original intent, so suggestions and corrections are especially welcomed. Please note that not all codes adhere to the non-sexist language recommended in the American Psychological Association Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.

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