What does the NASP Principles for Professional Ethics state about school psychologists and romantic relationships?

The NASP Principles for Professional Ethics explicitly state that school psychologists must maintain professional boundaries to ensure the welfare and integrity of their students and supervisees. Engaging in romantic relationships with students or those under their supervision can lead to a conflict of interest, potential exploitation, and an imbalance of power. Such relationships compromise the professional role of the school psychologist and undermine the trust that is essential for effective psychological practice.

By prohibiting romantic relationships with students or supervisees, the ethical guidelines emphasize the importance of professionalism and the duty to prioritize the well-being of clients over personal interests. This prevents situations where the objectivity and support needed for effective psychological services could be jeopardized by personal feelings or distractions. Thus, the guiding principle underscores the critical need for school psychologists to adhere to ethical standards that maintain professionalism and safeguard the interests of those they serve.