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Guidelines for Non-Discriminatory Practice
A publication of the Canadian Psychological Association
Approved by CPA, 1996
(updated 2001)
Preamble
These guidelines were developed to encourage non-discriminatory practice among
psychologists. They were based on the Canadian Code of Ethics for Psychologists (CPA, 1991)
and have been updated to cross reference to the third edition of the Code (CPA, 2000).1 The
guidelines are aspirational in intent. The goal is to promote non-discriminatory care in
therapeutic work with clients, as well as to provide guidelines for evaluating the extent to which
one’s work falls within the parameters of non-discriminatory practice. As our society and culture
become more diverse, and as we become more aware of specific diversities, it is important that
psychologists gain an awareness of the need for non-discriminatory practice. As the need arises,
guidelines can be developed for use of specific diversities.
Ethical Principles Applied to Non-Discriminatory Practice
Principle I: Respect for the Dignity of Persons
The principle of Respect for the Dignity of Persons (CPA, 2000) requires psychologists
in practice, teaching and research to actively demonstrate a belief that each person should be
treated primarily as a person or an end in him/herself, not as an object or a means to an end.
Psychologists appreciate that the innate worth of human beings is not enhanced or reduced by
their culture, nationality, ethnicity, colour, race, religion, sex, gender, marital status, sexual
1 These guidelines were prepared and updated by Sharon Crozier, Susan Harris, Carolyn Larsen, Jean Pettifor, and
Lynne Sloan, with the assistance of the Committee on Ethics of the Canadian Psychological Association.
