Abstract
M. Comm.
In order to register as industrial psychologists with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), candidates are required to undergo intensive training that comprises both a theoretical component and the completion of an internship programme. The purpose of this study was to determine the possible contextual and relational ethics challenges that could arise within such an internship programme. A qualitative, interpretative study was undertaken to explore the domain and 15 participants (interns and intern supervisors) narrated their experiences. Semi-structured interview questions enhanced the quality and quantity of the data and a focus group discussion with four participants (interns, an intern supervisor and an experienced psychologist) was conducted as a means to triangulate the data. The data were analysed through a process of content analysis during which recurring themes were derived. Numerous ethics challenges were identified both within the context and the relationships of industrial psychology internships and recommendations were made on how these could be addressed.