Constitution & Code of Conduct

The PATISA Constitution

The Constitution of PATISA is the supreme governing document of the association. It establishes our legal identity, defines our objectives, outlines membership structures, and sets out the rules by which the Executive Committee and members operate.

The Constitution was adopted at the founding of PATISA and is reviewed periodically by the Executive Committee. Any amendments require a two-thirds majority vote at a duly constituted Annual General Meeting (AGM) or Special General Meeting (SGM).

Key Constitutional Provisions

• Name & Identity: The association shall be known as the Psychological Association for Transformation and Innovation of South Africa (PATISA).
• Objectives: To give voice to all South African psychology practitioners; to drive transformation and innovation in theory, training, and practice; and to promote community-centered, culturally sensitive psychological services.
• Membership: Open to all professionals, students of psychology, and allies who support the mission. Membership is renewable annually. All paid-up members gain special privileges.
• Non-Discrimination: No member shall be discriminated against on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, religion, ability, or nationality.
• Governance: The Executive Committee shall manage the affairs of the association between AGMs. Ordinary meetings shall be held at least once a month.
• AGM: The Annual General Meeting shall be held at the anniversary month of the organisation, on a date determined by the Executive.
• Financial Year: The financial year shall run from 1 January to 31 December. Accounts shall be audited annually.
• Amendments: The Constitution may be amended by a two-thirds majority of members present at a duly constituted AGM or SGM, provided notice of the proposed amendment was given at least 21 days in advance.

Code of Conduct & Ethics

All PATISA members are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. This Code of Conduct operates in conjunction with, and does not replace, the ethical guidelines issued by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).

By joining PATISA, members agree to abide by this Code. Breaches may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from the association.

Core Ethical Principles

1. Respect for Human Dignity: Members shall treat all individuals with respect, recognising the inherent dignity and worth of every person, regardless of background, identity, or circumstance.
2. Competence & Integrity: Members shall practise within the boundaries of their competence, maintain professional standards, and engage in continuous professional development.
3. Confidentiality: Members shall protect the confidentiality of information obtained in the course of professional work, in accordance with HPCSA guidelines and applicable law.
4. Transformation & Social Justice: Members shall actively contribute to the transformation of the psychology profession in South Africa, promoting equity, access, and culturally responsive practice.
5. Professional Relationships: Members shall maintain appropriate professional boundaries and avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise their objectivity or the welfare of clients.
6. Collegiality: Members shall treat fellow practitioners, students, and colleagues with fairness, respect, and collegiality, and shall not engage in conduct that undermines the reputation of the profession.

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee is responsible for the day-to-day governance of PATISA between Annual General Meetings. Members are elected by the general membership at the AGM and serve for a term of two years, renewable once.

Election Process

Executive Committee positions are announced 60 days before the AGM. Nominations must be submitted in writing by a proposer and seconder, both of whom must be paid-up members. Elections are conducted by secret ballot at the AGM.