Date of Award
2005
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Psychology
Abstract
The purpose of this theoretical study was to contend for the need for the inclusion of moral values and virtues within the theory and practice ofPsychology. A hermeneutic review of the history ofPsychology was performed to determine how the epistemologies of positivism and postmodernism have limited psychologists in their abilities to include moral values and virtues within the practice and theory of psychotherapy. From this hermeneutic review a discovery was made that the current moral values within the field ofPsychology are individualism and a valuing of the self. The theory of dialogic hermeneutics is reviewed and found to be a better epistemology in regards to morality because it allows for the inclusion of moral values and virtues within the practice and theory ofPsychology that is non-dogmatic, non-absolutist, non-relativistic, and assumes a moral responsibility toward the other. A case example is used to demonstrate how dialogic hermeneutics can be utilized within treatment to bring about an inclusion of moral values and virtues. Five moral virtues (i.e., caring, compassion, courage, wisdom, and humility) are discussed to demonstrate how the inclusion of moral values and virtues can improve treatment outcomes. In conclusion, an argument is made that the inclusion of moral values and virtues is the next appropriate developmental step in ethical thinking for those within the field ofPsychology.
Recommended Citation
Adams, Michael D., "To Be Or Not To Be Good: The Need For Moral Virtues InPsychology" (2005). All-Inclusive List of Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1108.
https://scholars.indianastate.edu/etds/1108