Previous studies showed occurring inconsistencies in the decision-making of
participants (psychotherapists) when it comes to certain ethical dilemmas (e.g., Tymchuk et al.,
1982; Pope et al., 1987). Studies conducted in different countries showed that many
psychotherapists have unusual ethical beliefs that are not following the ethical code or even the
law (e.g., Clemente, Espinosa & Urra, 2011; Gius & Coin, 2000; Jing-Bo et al., 2011; Sullivan,
2002). However, the need for more elaborated cross-cultural research remains… Additionally,
results suggest that personal and professional characteristics represent relevant factors in the
ethical decision-making of psychologists (Haas et al., 1988), which might be culturally
specific. Mentioned studies were mostly focused on whether participants agreed with some
decisions portrayed by the short vignettes but failed to go beyond mere frequencies into a
detailed qualitative approach, which would help explain the nature of these results and factors