Ethics education : further reasons why a grounding in ethical theory is essential : comment on Davidson, Garton and Joyce (2003)

Davidson, Garton, and Joyce ( Australian Psychologist 2003 ; 38 : 216 - 222) report a recent survey of ethics education for psychologists and recommend changes in ethics curricula at universities in order to meet Australian Psychological Society (APS) guidelines. Although they outline some of the benefits of ethics education, their advocacy of formal ethics training can be supported more powerfully by arguments based on the nature of ethical thinking itself. They suggest a three-stage model for ethics education through Years 1 - 7 of training in psychology. A sequential approach is desirable and a slightly revised model is suggested. Finally, ways in which the APS can support universities in their teaching of ethics are outlined.