Social Networks have been both embraced and vilified by the American public. Go ahead and bellyache about
them, but like it our not they are here to stay.
On March 17, 12010 the Pew Internet and American Life Project was released, it showed that 8 in 10 internet have looked online for health information. Many patients say the internet has had a significant impact on the way they care for themselves or for other. 20% of these patients are going to social networking sites where they are sharing what they know and learn from their peers.
The impact Web 2.0 technologies bring to the balance of power between the client and professional is significant. The challenge for us as psychologists is in just how we will adapt and use this tool to reach out and connect to others in new and exciting ways.
That said these technologies present many legal and professional hazards to us as professionals and it is incumbent on us to be mindful of what and where and how we post.
So whether you are blogging, using Facebook or Twitter here are some helpful tips for Psychologists.
Be aware of patient confidentiality
Social Networking can present the risk of compromising patient confidentiality.
Whilst not wishing to state what may be patently obvious, use your common sense e.g. don’t share details of patients on your Blog or Facebook page.
Information should be generic enough that a client cannot be identified when discussing clients with other professionals.
There is also the danger of a client disclosing too much if you allow them to post on website or Facebook Page. Once a client has posted something they are in essence allowing it to be public but might not be fully aware that this is what they are doing.
Think before you press publish
Don’t be too hasty the maxim measure twice cut once is a good principle to apply here. Press pause before you press publish, because the web has a very long memory.
Assume that everything you publish will be permanent, even though you may delete an account or post once published anyone can print it..
Monitor, monitor, monitor
If you are going to set up a social networking site you need to regularly monitor it and be aware of all the information that is being received. Whilst social media may not the best way establish communication with a client if you don’t monitor your site you may risk missing an urgent message or information that a client will be under the impression that you have received. Obviously monitor the links to sites that are posted in comments, especially from innocuous looking sites that often lead to a less innocent page.
Clients are not your friend’s
It is important to maintain professional boundaries, getting too close and sharing personal information with your clients puts your relationship at risk.
If a client or former client asks to be a Facebook friend you can just say, ‘Thanks for asking me – I’m keeping Facebook for my family and friends’.
Rather set up a separate page to represent your practice – this way you are not confusing the line between personal and professional.
Don’t take it personally
We’re psychologists so we should be able to handle this next one without any problems 😉 Not everyone is going to like what you have to say!
