Ethics, Safety & Legal Considerations Flashcards

What is the ethical obligation when a client appears to be in a mental health crisis rather than experiencing a genuine paranormal phenomenon?

Answer: Sensitively refer the client to qualified mental health professionals while maintaining dignity and compassion

Ethical investigators recognize when experiences may indicate mental health needs and compassionately refer clients to qualified professionals without dismissing or stigmatizing them.

Which of the following constitutes misrepresentation that an ethical paranormal investigator must avoid?

Answer: Claiming to hold certifications or credentials that were not legitimately earned

Claiming unearned credentials or certifications is misrepresentation that deceives clients and damages the credibility of the paranormal investigation field.

When is it permissible to name a client or specific location in a published case report?

Answer: Only with explicit written consent from the client and property owner

Identifying clients or locations in published materials requires explicit written consent regardless of the strength or significance of the evidence.

A minor (under 18) asks to participate in a paranormal investigation as a team volunteer. What is required before they can participate?

Answer: Written parental or guardian consent and compliance with minor labor and safety regulations

Minors require written parental or guardian consent, and their participation must comply with all applicable laws protecting minors in potentially hazardous environments.

What does the principle of 'non-maleficence' mean in the context of paranormal investigation ethics?

Answer: Avoid actions that cause unnecessary harm to clients, team members, or the investigation site

Non-maleficence, borrowed from medical ethics, means investigators must avoid causing unnecessary harm to any person or property during the course of their work.

An investigator receives a request to conduct an investigation for a fee at a location they believe to be entirely non-paranormal. What is the ethical course of action?

Answer: Honestly communicate skepticism about the case and let the client decide with full information

Ethical investigators must be transparent about their professional assessment, allowing clients to make informed decisions about whether to proceed.

Which safety protocol should be followed when an investigator experiences sudden unexplained physical symptoms (dizziness, nausea, headache) during an investigation?

Answer: Immediately evacuate the area and test for carbon monoxide and other environmental hazards

Sudden unexplained physical symptoms in a building can indicate carbon monoxide poisoning or other environmental hazards requiring immediate evacuation and testing.