UBCO won’t say if prof faces disciplinary action
Stephen Porter’s psychology practice placed under regulatory supervision
UBC Okanagan is not revealing whether it has taken disciplinary action against a professor accused of sexual harassment.
In an online notice posted on Dec. 29, the College of Psychologists of British Columbia said Stephen Porter had consented to having his practice put under regulatory supervision for 18 months, with a “particular focus” on boundary issues, sexual harassment and power differentials.
The notice said Porter would not be allowed to “supervise students, researchers and volunteers until the supervisor confirms his readiness, and then only under their supervision.”
Porter agreed to step aside from his teaching duties on Jan. 12, said Nathan Skolski, spokesperson for UBC Okanagan.
“He will continue to be engaged in his other academic responsibilities,” said Skolski. “UBC is working with the BC College of Psychologists to determine the best course of action with respect to the conditions and limitations placed on Dr. Porter’s practice.” Skolski would not say what, if any, disciplinary action has been taken against Porter.
“UBC does not comment on individual human resources matters to protect the privacy and confidentiality of students, faculty and staff,” he said.
Skolski cited provincial privacy legislation that says Porter would have to agree to have UBC disclose such information about him.
“If UBC violates somebody’s privacy, we are committing an offence and are liable to a fine of up to $500,000,” said Skolski.
Porter is well-known for his work in lie detection and psychopathy.
In 2015, he won a Canadian Psychological Association award for excellence in undergraduate and graduate level teaching.