When sociologists have substantial reason to believe that there may have been an ethical violation by another sociologist, they attempt to resolve the issue by bringing it to the attention of that individual if an informal resolution appears appropriate or possible, or they seek advice about whether or how to proceed based on this belief, assuming that such activity does not violate any confidentiality rights. Such action might include referral to the ASA’s Committee on Professional Ethics.
Cooperating with Ethics Committees
Sociologists cooperate in ethics investigations, proceedings, and resulting requirements of the American Sociological Association. In doing so, they make reasonable efforts to resolve any issues of confidentiality. Failure to cooperate may be an ethics violation. Improper Complaints
Sociologists do not file or encourage the filing of ethics complaints that are frivolous and are intended to harm the alleged violator rather than to protect the integrity of the discipline and the public. Note: This revised edition of the American Sociological Association’s Code of Ethics builds on the 1989 edition of the Code and the 1992 version of the American Psychological Association’s Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct.