In psychological assessments, what is the goal of obtaining informed consent?

Informed consent in psychological assessments is fundamentally about empowering clients with knowledge and choice. This process involves providing clients with clear, comprehensive information regarding the assessment procedure, its purpose, potential risks, benefits, and how the results will be used. This knowledge allows clients to make an informed decision about whether they wish to participate in the assessment, thereby promoting autonomy and respecting their rights.

By ensuring clients understand the implications of their involvement, the informed consent process builds trust between the client and the therapist. It reinforces the ethical principle of respect for persons, which is central to psychological practice. This empowerment fosters a collaborative relationship and enhances the overall therapeutic process, as clients who feel informed and in control are more likely to engage meaningfully in their assessments and subsequent treatment.

The other options do not align with the fundamental principles of informed consent. They either suggest coercion, administrative convenience, or a lack of emphasis on the importance of client understanding, none of which reflect the ethical and professional standards upheld in psychological assessments.