The discussion paper must be at least three pages in length (double-spaced, 12-inch Times New Roman font, 1-inch margins). I do expect your paper to be at least this length. Do not write less than this amount or use bigger margins or fonts. There is no need for a header. Your name is the only thing that should be at the top of your paper. You are certainly welcome to write more than two pages.

I also want to emphasize that this is NOT a research paper. You should not use outside resources or attempt to do research to write this paper. Simply read the assigned readings, reflect on the questions below, and write a paper that responds to those questions.

In class today, we discussed Boatright’s article “Conflict of Interest” (p. 255-258 in the textbook). For the discussion paper assignment, please also read the case study “Timing Mutual Funds” (p. 271-272 in the textbook). Then write a paper that addresses the following questions: 1) Who are “market timers” or “late traders”?2) Do these participants create an actual or potential conflict of interest for mutual fund companies? Why or why not?3) If a conflict of interest (actual or potential) is created, who is harmed by it and how is that party harmed?4) Does this conflict of interest rise to the level of being morally wrong, or is the practice of allowing “market timers” or “late traders” permissible? Why is this wrong, or why is it permissible?5) Which moral theory, Utilitarianism or Deontology (or both), justifies your judgment about what is wrong or permissible in this case? How does it (or do they) justify it?  

Prior to beginning work on this discussion forum, be certain to have read all the required resources for this week. In recent years, the psychology profession has been greatly influenced by various forms of technology. The prevalence of psychology professionals using technology to market themselves and engage, socialize, and interact with others has created new opportunities and challenges. This is particularly true with regard to potential interactions with clients via these technologies. Given the exponential growth with which these technological advancements are permeating our world, we expect to see the proliferation of new issues, challenges, and opportunities within the realms of psychological research and practice.

In your initial post:

• Provide an overview of the relevant issues, ongoing trends, challenges, and future opportunities for psychology professionals and the populations they serve.
• Explain how the APA’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct can be used to guide decisions in the ethical application of these technologies.
• Construct clear and concise arguments using evidence-based psychological concepts and theories to explain how current technological and policy shifts may influence trends in psychological research and practice. 
• Evaluate potential work settings where the use of technologies promotes ease and convenience for both psychology professionals and the populations they serve.

What are the potential responsibilities of the psychology professionals as providers of care with regard to the use of these technologies? Does the increase in ease, convenience, and experience satisfaction for the parties involved outweigh any potential negative outcomes?