In the context of the EPPP, what does "ethics" primarily refer to?

In the context of the EPPP, ethics primarily refers to the moral principles that govern the professional conduct of psychologists. This encompasses the guidelines and standards that psychologists are expected to follow in their practice, ensuring that they act in the best interest of their clients, uphold the integrity of the profession, and maintain public trust.

Ethical guidelines help psychologists navigate complex situations, make decisions that align with professional integrity, and ensure that they are providing services that are in line with the values of respect, competence, and responsibility. These principles often originate from professional organizations, such as the American Psychological Association (APA), and are vital for establishing the framework within which psychologists operate ethically and professionally.

In contrast, legal standards pertain to laws and regulations governing psychological practice, while community standards reflect the societal norms that might influence treatment but do not explicitly define ethical conduct. Additionally, theoretical orientations relate to the frameworks and theories guiding psychological treatment but do not inherently contain the moral dimensions that are central to ethical practice. Thus, the correct answer captures the essence of what ethics entails within the field of psychology.