In a complex society where individual and social values are still ill defined, the desire to deal fairly should be given a direction and consistency by some rules. These rules should not only help the unethical psychologists keep out of trouble, but also help them make daily decisions. The ethics code intended to protect the psychologists and the people they treat, but it also had a commitment to the broader community. It ensured that confidentiality and honesty are given to the colleges and the clients.
It also gave a provision for telling the truth to judicially and other professionals. The 1992 code of ethics appeared to have retreated from prioritizing the humanitarian stance of revision of the code because the goal of protecting human rights was always highlighted by the preambles of each revision of the code. This was well portrayed as the minority groups would have claimed there was apparent downgrading hence the 1992 code mostly protected the psychologist contrary to the previous ones which protected the consumers.
This attributed to the revision of the code; this is where action was taken to prepare the 2002 ethics code and the American Psychologist Association started the journey for this work (Knapp, 2002). The American Psychological Association (APA) has had several decades of experience revising and construction of an ethics code.
They wanted to make one which will reflect aspirations and practical ethical decisions. These revisions have been driven by the desire for standards that motivates the psychologists, ensure public welfare, promote sound relationships with allied professions and promote professional standing of discipline (Fisher, 2003).