Ethical Issues in Testing and Assessment

Ethical standards and guidelines for testing are necessary, as they promote and regulate professional behavior. While there are many professional association codes of conduct promoting ethical issues in testing and assessment, The Universal Declaration of Ethical Principles for Psychologists is discussed, as it is a document reflecting the principles and values expected of a code of conduct. In addition and more specifically, standards, guidelines and the responsibilities for ethical test usage are reflected on, such as that found in the International Test Commission, which promotes effective testing and assessment policies. There are a variety of issues pertinent to tests and assessment and these are discussed, namely cross-cultural applicability and transportability of tests, translation guidelines, telepsychology, computer and Internet-based assessment, privacy and confidentiality, feedback and assessment, test publishers and authors, culturally competent career assessment practice, and special populations such as children and adolescents.