Ethical issues in the treatment of communication apprehension and avoidance
- 1 April 1991
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Informa UK Limited in Communication Education
- Vol. 40 (2), 172-179
- https://doi.org/10.1080/03634529109378838
Abstract
The problem and effects of communication apprehension and avoidance (CAA) are well‐known to communication professionals. Several treatments that appear to reduce the problem of CAA have been developed. However, ethical concerns inherent in delivering psychological treatment without being a licensed practitioner have not been considered. A review of the literature shows that no code of ethics applies to CAA professionals and that there are legal implications to “practicing psychology without a license.” Ethical and legal problems are explored and three options for solving those problems are discussed: “cease and desist” all treatment programs, create hybrid communication/counseling programs, or create a code of ethics for CAA treatment procedures.Keywords
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