What constitutes improper sexual contact in the first degree according to OCGA?

Improper sexual contact in the first degree, as defined by the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (OCGA), primarily revolves around the nature of the interaction between a psychologist and their client, especially when it involves sexually explicit conduct. Engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a client known to be part of the agency clearly represents a violation of ethical boundaries and professional standards. This kind of conduct undermines the integrity of the therapeutic relationship, creates a power imbalance, and can lead to exploitation or harm to the client.

While inappropriate touching during a session could also be considered improper, the specific phrasing of engaging in sexually explicit conduct emphasizes the broader categorization of such actions as not just physical but also encompassing verbal and behavioral communications that are sexual in nature. Other options, such as consensual relationships with former clients or flirting with colleagues, do not directly fall under the same degree of violation as they involve different contexts and relationships. However, it’s important to note that even these may be considered unethical under various circumstances, they do not specifically address the core definition of first-degree improper sexual contact in the same manner as explicitly engaging with a current client.