What defines the ethical standards that members of a profession are expected to follow?

The correct answer, professional codes, refers to comprehensive and formalized documents established by professional organizations that articulate the ethical standards and expectations for practitioners within a specific field. These codes serve as a framework for guiding behavior, decision-making, and responsibilities, ensuring that members uphold integrity, accountability, and public trust in their profession.

Professional codes cover various aspects, including confidentiality, dual relationships, competence, and integrity, providing members with a clear understanding of the ethical principles that should govern their practice. They are essential for maintaining professional standards and addressing ethical dilemmas that may arise in practice, ultimately reinforcing the credibility and reliability of the profession as a whole.

While ethical guidelines and conduct rules may provide additional criteria for ethical behavior, they are typically encompassed within the broader context of professional codes, which provide a more structured and binding set of expectations for members of a profession.