Clinical psychologists typically diagnose individuals in a controlled and private setting, such as their office or a clinical setting, where they can conduct thorough assessments, gather relevant information, and maintain confidentiality. Diagnosing people on the subway or any other public place would be highly inappropriate and unprofessional for several reasons:
Lack of privacy: Diagnosing someone on a crowded subway would violate the person's privacy and confidentiality. Public spaces are not appropriate for discussing sensitive and personal issues related to mental health.
Incomplete assessment: Diagnosing mental health conditions requires a comprehensive evaluation, which includes gathering detailed information about the person's history, symptoms, and functioning. It is not possible to conduct such an assessment properly in a public setting like a subway.
Ethical considerations: The American Psychological Association (APA) and other professional organizations have strict ethical guidelines that psychologists must follow. These guidelines emphasize the importance of ensuring client welfare, maintaining confidentiality, and conducting thorough assessments in appropriate settings.
Informed consent: Before diagnosing someone, psychologists must obtain informed consent from the individual. In a public space, it is not possible to ensure that the person fully understands the implications of a diagnosis or to seek their consent.
If someone on the subway is experiencing distress or mental health concerns, it is not appropriate for a clinical psychologist or any other mental health professional to attempt a diagnosis in that setting. Instead, they may encourage the person to seek professional help and provide information about available mental health resources.