Review Process

Inquiry and Investigation

If the Ethics Review Subcommittee (ERS) determines that a report warrants further review, it will initiate an inquiry and provide the respondent with a summary of the allegations and an opportunity to respond. The ERS considers evidence submitted by the parties, including documents, witness statements, and other relevant materials. The Society strives to resolve cases within 90 days, although complex cases may require additional time.

During an investigation, the ERS may temporarily restrict participation in Society activities, including eligibility for awards, committee service, publications, or Society events. Investigations continue regardless of a respondent’s membership status or participation in Society activities.

Review and Decision

If the ERS determines that a violation may have occurred and recommends disciplinary action, its findings are forwarded to the Executive Committee. To promote impartiality, identifying information is excluded from Executive Committee discussions whenever possible, and individuals with conflicts of interest must recuse themselves.

The Executive Committee reviews the case and votes on any recommended sanctions. The Ethics Committee Chair communicates the final decision to the respondent.

Confidentiality

Reports, investigations, findings, and sanctions are treated as confidential and are shared only with individuals responsible for reviewing cases or implementing sanctions. Reporters are notified when a case is resolved, although specific sanctions may remain confidential except when disclosure is necessary for safety or participation in Society activities.

The Society may notify affiliated organizations, funding agencies, or a respondent’s home institution when warranted. Notification is mandatory in cases involving violence, sexual misconduct, or physical harm.

Sanctions

Sanctions are determined based on the nature and severity of the violation and may include:

• Written Reprimand – Formal written warning.
• Suspension of Privileges – Restriction from Society service, meetings, events, presentations, or journal submissions.
• Revocation of Grants or Awards – Rescission of Society honors, awards, or funding.
• Suspension of Membership – Temporary loss of membership.
• Permanent Expulsion – Removal from the Society in accordance with the Bylaws.

Sanctions may be temporary or permanent and may be combined when appropriate.

Determining Sanctions

In determining appropriate sanctions, the Society may consider:

• The nature and severity of the violation
• Its impact on individuals and the Society community
• Any prior disciplinary history
• Acceptance of responsibility by the respondent
• The need to maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment
• Other relevant mitigating or aggravating factors

Repeat violations may result in substantially more severe sanctions, including permanent loss of membership or privileges.

Sanctions Matrices

Sanctions Matrix: Violation of Research Standards

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Sanctions Matrix: Violation of General Interpersonal Standards

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Appeals

Any reporter or respondent may appeal a sanction (except permanent expulsion) within 60 days of notification. Appeals are reviewed by an independent Appeals Committee composed of three Past Presidents who were not involved in the original decision. The Appeals Committee may uphold or modify the sanction and will communicate its decision in a timely manner.

Statute of Limitations

There is no statute of limitations for reporting or investigating alleged violations of the Society Code of Conduct.