What action is appropriate for a school psychologist if their ethical beliefs clash with institutional policies?

When a school psychologist encounters a conflict between their ethical beliefs and institutional policies, advocating for policy changes while upholding ethical standards is the most appropriate action. This approach allows the psychologist to remain aligned with the ethical principles that guide their profession, such as beneficence, non-maleficence, and respect for the dignity of individuals.

By advocating for changes, the psychologist actively works to improve the environment for the students and the community, ensuring that their practice reflects the highest ethical standards. This involves engaging in dialogue with stakeholders, proposing constructive changes, and providing evidence-based reasoning for such adjustments. It acknowledges the importance of ethics in educational settings and shows a commitment to the well-being of students, which is essential for effective practice as a school psychologist.

Taking this route demonstrates professional integrity and can contribute to a culture of ethical awareness within the institution, potentially leading to improved policies that are more aligned with best practices in psychology and the needs of the student population.