The “Third” Eye: Ethics of Video Recording in the Context of Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
Canadian Journal of Bioethics – December 07, 2023
Source: DOAJ
Summary
Ensuring patient safety in psychedelic therapy is crucial, but mandatory video recording introduces complex ethical challenges. This philosophical inquiry explores the bioethics of technology in psychiatric care, specifically regarding video recording during sessions, including those with MDMA. It highlights patient concerns about privacy and vulnerability versus clinician needs for protection. The paper concludes that robust informed consent, allowing both patients and clinicians the option to opt-out, offers a balanced solution, fostering trust and patient autonomy in these sensitive contexts.
Abstract
In light of high-profile cases of sexual assault and other unethical conduct by therapists, recent clinical research involving psychedelic drugs has generally mandated the video recording of therapy sessions. In this paper, I address a gap in the literature by investigating ethical issues related to video recording in the unique context of psychedelic therapy sessions. I begin by summarizing the important benefits and risks related to video recording. I then examine ethical concerns about mandatory recording of psychedelic therapy sessions from a patient perspective and argue that these concerns must be taken seriously by clinicians and researchers. I also examine the view that video recording is essential for clinician safety. Given the legitimacy of concerns from both perspectives, I outline some basic informed consent considerations that could generate dialogue around potential patient concerns and defend the option to opt-out for both patients and clinicians. In conclusion, I underscore the importance of further critical bioethical inquiry and qualitative research regarding video recording practices in the context of psychedelic-assisted therapies.