Cinema often dramatizes psychology for emotional effect. However, for psychology students, films can also serve as powerful ethical case studies.

In this analysis, we examine a fictional character — a PhD scholar in psychology researching violence — whose professional decisions repeatedly violate foundational ethical principles in research and clinical practice. The purpose of this article is not to critique storytelling, but to examine what psychology students must learn about professional responsibility, boundaries, and reflective practice.

1. You Cannot Choose a Person Just Because You Feel Interested

In the film, the scholar selects the man for her research because she finds him “interesting” and violent.
But research does not begin with emotions.

Good research requires:
Proper approval
Clear plan
Defined method
Supervision

We do not build research around attraction, curiosity, or drama.
We build it around structure.

2. Professional Relationship Must Stay Professional

Slowly, the relationship becomes emotional and romantic. This is called a dual relationship — when you become more than a researcher or therapist in someone’s life.

This creates:
Confusion
Emotional dependency
Power imbalance

As psychology students, we must remember:
Care does not mean closeness without limits.
Boundaries protect both people.

3. Physical Closeness Is Not Always Harmless

The film shows repeated physical and emotional closeness. In psychology, touch and personal involvement are sensitive areas. They can activate attachment feelings very strongly. Even if intentions are good, it can create dependency and confusion.

Professional boundaries are not about being cold.
They are about being responsible.

4. A Psychologist Should Regulate, Not Provoke

Instead of calming him and creating structure, she often provokes him emotionally to push change.

But our role is to:
Reduce emotional intensity
Create safety
Help regulate feelings
Provide step-by-step guidance

Change happens through stability, not emotional chaos.

5. Know When to Refer

There are moments in the story where the man clearly needs structured therapy and maybe psychiatric support. But she keeps everything in her own hands.

As students, we must learn:
Referring is not weakness.
It is professionalism.
We are not meant to handle everything alone.

6. Self-Awareness Is Very Important

One major issue is that she does not recognize her own emotional involvement.

In psychology, we must constantly ask:
Am I reacting professionally or personally?
Is this about the client, or about me?
If we stop asking these questions, we may unknowingly cause harm.

7. Meeting Again After Years

Later in life, she meets him again in a professional setting. Instead of referring the case to someone else (because of their past), she chooses to take it herself. When we have a personal history with someone, objectivity becomes difficult. Sometimes the most ethical decision is to step aside.

Do’s and Don’ts for Psychology Students

Psychology is not just about understanding the mind.
It is about handling human vulnerability responsibly.

Here are essential guidelines every psychology student should remember.

DO’s

1. Maintain Clear Boundaries

Know your role at all times.
Are you a student? Intern? Researcher? Counsellor-in-training?
Clarity prevents confusion and harm.

2. Seek Supervision Regularly

If you feel emotionally affected by a client or participant, consult your supervisor immediately.
Supervision is strength, not weakness.

3. Recognize Countertransference

Notice your own reactions:
Are you overly protective?
Irritated?
Attracted?
Trying too hard to “save” someone?

Your emotions are information — not instructions.

4. Get Proper Consent

In research or practice, always ensure:
Informed consent
Clear explanation of purpose
Voluntary participation
Never assume understanding.

5. Refer When Necessary

If a case is beyond your competence, refer to a qualified professional.
Knowing your limits is professional maturity.

6. Keep Documentation Clear

Maintain records ethically and confidentially.
Good documentation protects both you and the client.

7. Practice Self-Reflection

Regular journaling and reflective practice improve awareness.
Ask yourself: “Am I acting for the client’s benefit — or my own emotional need?”

8. Protect Confidentiality

Information shared with you is private.
Breaking confidentiality can damage trust permanently.

DON’Ts
1. Do Not Enter Dual Relationships

Never mix professional roles with:
Romantic involvement
Friendship
Financial dependency
Personal emotional closure

Dual relationships create power imbalance and harm.

2. Do Not Take Cases with Personal History

If you already have emotional involvement with someone, do not take them as a client or research subject.
Objectivity is compromised.

3. Do Not Try to Be the “Savior”

You are not responsible for fixing someone’s life.
Facilitate growth — do not control outcomes.

4. Do Not Ignore Ethical Guidelines

Ethics are not optional.
They are the foundation of psychological practice.

5. Do Not Overstep Competence

Do not practice techniques you are not trained in.
Do not diagnose beyond your level.

6. Do Not Use Emotional Intensity as Therapy

Provoking strong emotions without containment can cause harm.
Therapy is structured, not dramatic.

7. Do Not Break Promises

If you commit to something professionally, honor it.
Broken trust can retraumatize vulnerable individuals.

8. Do Not Underestimate Power Dynamics

Even as a student, your knowledge gives you influence.
Use it responsibly.

Final Reminder

Being a psychology student is a privilege.
People share their deepest fears, pain, and secrets with you.
That trust must never be misused.
Skills can be learned.
Techniques can be mastered.
But ethical discipline must be built from the beginning.

That is what truly makes a psychologist safe and competent.

Srinidhi.T
Counselling Psychologist
Corporate Trainer & Therapeutic Art Life Coach