Which group is responsible for setting the ethical standards for psychologists?

The group responsible for setting the ethical standards for psychologists is the American Psychological Association (APA). The APA provides comprehensive guidelines that cover a wide range of ethical issues faced by psychologists in practice, research, and education. These guidelines emphasize the importance of beneficence, confidentiality, integrity, and respect for individuals' rights, among other principles.

The State Board of Psychology does have regulatory authority over the practice of psychology at the state level, including issuing licenses and enforcing state laws. However, it does not set the overarching ethical standards; instead, it enforces the standards established by recognized professional organizations like the APA.

The National Institute of Mental Health, while an important entity in the realm of research and funding related to mental health, does not set ethical standards for practitioners. Its focus is more on research initiatives and advancing understanding in the field.

The American Psychiatric Association primarily focuses on psychiatry, which differs from psychology, and while it also has its own ethical standards, these pertain specifically to the practice of psychiatry rather than the broader field of psychology.

Therefore, the American Psychological Association is the correct answer as it is the primary body advocating for ethical practices among psychologists.