Keywords
Professional ethics; rules and regulations; personal values; cross-cultural; Denmark
Abstract
This study focused on the differences and similarities in how mental health professionals in the United States and Denmark implement their ethical guidelines set forth by the American Counseling Association and the Danish Psychological Association (Dansk Psykolog Forening), their specific work settings’ rules and regulations, and their personal values and beliefs when working with clients. Survey packets were developed in English and Danish and administered to 30 United States citizens and 27 Danish mental health professionals. Results indicated that U.S. mental health professionals adhere to their professional ethical guidelines more often than Danish mental health professionals. Results also revealed a positive relationship among professional ethical guidelines, work setting rules and regulations, and personal values and beliefs. Implications for future international, cross-cultural research are considered.
Cover Page Footnote
Nanja H. Hansen, Askovhus, Denmark; Andrea L. Dixon School of Human Development and Organizational Studies in Education Counselor Education Program, University of Florida; Sharon Robinson Kurpius, Counseling and Counseling Psychology, Arizona State University. This article is based on Nanja H. Hansen’s master’s thesis work conducted at Arizona State University. Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Andrea L. Dixon, School of Human Development and Organizational Studies in Education, PO Box 117046, College of Education, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611-7046. E-mail: adixon@coe.ufl.edu
Document Type
Article
COinS