Katie has an ethical obligation to report this omission to the BACB as soon as she noticed the omission. 1.02 RBTs have an obligation to remain familiar with this code. Student Development. Removing herself from the case may be an appropriate resolution, but it is not the full resolution. Yes. Benefiting Others 4. The principles of applied behavior analysis (also known as behavior modification and learning theory), developed and researched by psychology and competently applied in the treatment of various … Alex remembers some of the questions and reviews those questions with his colleague during a study session. If Amanda was aware that she may be unable to maintain this additional professional commitment at the outset of services and still continued with those services, she would be neglecting her ethical responsibility. Therefore, seeking support on how to address ethical issues with those involved is recommended. 2.09 RBTs never disclose confidential information without consent from the client. Susie should not engage in a romantic relationship for at least two years after the conclusion of her supervisory responsibilities. 2.01 RBTs support the legal rights and preferences of clients. and Health-Care Ethics. Omitting the last sessions of data might alter interpretations of Jesse’s work/research findings. Over the course of this chapter, you will identify what ethics is and access references to guide your ethical decision making. Kelly needs to provide assessment results to the parents so she enlists the help of her organization’s Spanish language interpreter to assist. Her principal informs her that she doesn’t need to provide that information because she is an employee of the school and she wouldn’t have been hired without proper credentials. Define the concept of ethical public relations literacy. Sheila is ethically bound to withhold the disclosure of specific exam questions. Despite Scott explaining potential safety concerns for the client, the parent is insistent that he develop a program for the client to learn how to kayak. 3.06 When RBTs provide services, they communicate with clients in a simple and easy-to-understand way. No. Confidentiality and privacy requirements may be established by law or by an organization’s policies. Keeping in close contact with this code will assist in learning to identify ethical dilemmas fluently. Respecting Autonomy Working for greater INDEPENDENCE is part of value system of ABA (shaping, chaining, functional analysis, token economies, prosthetic environments) Case Study:  Bridget is an RBT. RBT’s have an obligation to their clients, credential, and to the field to adhere to ethical practice at all times. No. Case Study:  Steve suspects that his client is being abused. Bryan, along with his supervisor, could have discussed the difference between ABA and this model and the ethical obligation they have to their client to implement evidenced based treatments. Exceptions are made as required by law, or where allowed by law for a valid reason. Teaching Procedures Using Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis The purpose of this document is to describe and evaluate the research on some common teaching procedures that are based on the principles of applied behavior … Britney responded to the email attaching a copy of the client’s insurance treatment plan and a request to meet to discuss more formally in person. Respecting Autonomy 3. 3.03 RBTs must be competent in the areas in which they provide behavior technician services. They also inform him that the BCBA would have to assess the child and develop a treatment plan with feasible and individualized timelines because every case is different. She accepts the additional responsibility. Those principles, having evolved over the centuries to lend moral … For instance, in 2001, corporate giant, Enron was investigated by the Securities and Exchange Commission for various accounting frauds. Case Study:  Jackie documents her clinical rationale for all of her client’s programmatic changes and saves them on her organization’s secured server. A therapeutic social environment is achieved when surrounded by supportive and knowledgeable persons (i.e. He did not solicit or use this testimonial for any purpose, so it would not be considered an ethical violation. Consumers have an expectation of ethical behavior when engaging in a relationship with professionals. Yes. Case Study:  Amanda is an RBT who works for an organization that provides ABA services to children with autism. In 1998, Dr. Andrew Wakefield published an article in the Lancet linking the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine to a potential predisposition for developmental disorders. Case Study:  Daria an RBT, attends a conference also attended by a former RBT colleague. ABA professionals practicing under any BACB credential (RBT, BCaBA, BCBA, BCBA-D) are required to conduct the necessary academic and practicum training experience before practicing as that credential. 3.07 RBTs collect and display data in a way that allows for decisions and recommendations to be made for program development. Core ethical Principles in the discipline of psychology, adopted by the Association for Behavior Analysis-International (ABAI) to guide professional practice in the specialty are introduced, with a focus on practical applications of these principles in educational settings where the discipline of applied behavior … 1.07 RBTs do not engage in sexual relationships with clients or supervisors. At the beginning of this chapter, we reviewed the case of Enron. By - Amber Kanchwala theautismhelper.com Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a science dedicated to the understanding and improvement of human behavior. 2.10 RBTs create, maintain, distribute, store, retain, and dispose of records and data relating to their services (1) in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, and policies; (2) in a way that complies with the requirements of this code; and (3) in a manner that allows for appropriate transition of service at any given time. Core Ethical Values Do No Harm Respecting Autonomy Benefitting Others Being Just Being Truthful According Dignity Treating Others with Caring and Compassion Pursuit of Excellence Accepting Responsibility … Responsibility to the BACB. No. The Speech Language Pathologist emailed Britney requesting information about her client’s programming so that they can better align programming to reflect the client’s ABA and speech and language needs. He contacts his supervisor first before contacting the state agency, but his supervisor has not contacted him back. She actively attends professional conferences and has recently enrolled in master’s program to receive her BCBA certification. Course Hero is not sponsored or endorsed by any college or university. 1.05 If RBTs’ ethical responsibilities conflict with employer policies, RBTs must bring the conflict to their supervisor’s attention, document that they did so, and document the resolution. Without signed consent from the parent or guardian, Britney is unable to provide this information to the Speech Language Pathologist. Given the relationship between Jeff and his friend, it would be inappropriate for him to provide services even if a contract was established at the outset of services. Stephanie fears that approaching her supervisor could have negative consequences for her employment, so she has removed herself from the case, but has chosen to wait and see if the issue is resolved by her supervisor. Her client also speaks English, but the client’s parent/guardian speaks primarily Spanish. Ethics in Applied Research - Presession Pairing, Amanda N. Kelly, PhD, BCBA-D, SEEM Collaborative . Introduction to ABA, Ethics and Core Ethical Principles 2. No. Some cases may require immediate action due to concerns of immediate harm, while others will not need to be dealt with immediately. Bridget did not make the comments, she then reported it to her supervising BCBA and assured follow-up in an effort to correct the statements made. Nine Core Ethical Principles Case Study:  Alex just took his RBT exam. Case Study:  Annabelle posted an article from the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis to her social media page and states “I am so excited about this article! These, principles can be applied to ethics in many areas, including, psychology and the work of behavior analysts. RBTs provide citations that recognize the intellectual property of others, including trademark and copyright symbols. I will have an answer to you by our next meeting.” During this time, it is recommended that the code is reviewed, and a supervisor or colleague is consulted. A colleague of his is taking the exam next week and asks Alex for some hints on potential exam questions. The following section covers an RBT’s legal and ethical responsibility to clients by maintaining their legal and ethical rights. Jesse is not required to notify the BACB about a parking ticket as that is not a public health or safety related ticket. RBTs document their efforts to address any of these issues. Jackie has documented appropriate information in regards to her client’s programming in a secure location. Ethical Considerations Across Various Treatment Settings, BABAT 2012 Panel Presentation "Is this treatment ethical", Amanda N. Kelly / Kim Bethel, SEEM Collaborative 2012. Yes. Their consumers and employees’ legal rights were affected by the company’s fraudulent accounting. Discuss examples and non-examples of guidelines The evidenced based treatments associated with behavior analysis should be conducted with the least restrictiveness possible. 3.04 RBTs may not practice with new client populations without proper training and oversight. Yes. E-1 Effectively communicate with a supervisor in an ongoing manner.E-2 Actively seek clinical direction from supervisor in a timely manner.E-3 Report other variables that might affect the client in a timely manner.E-5 Comply with applicable legal, regulatory, and workplace data collection, storage, transportation, and documentation requirements.F-1 Describe the BACB’s RBT supervision requirements and the role of RBTs in the service-delivery system.F-2 Respond appropriately to feedback and maintain or improve performance accordingly.F-4 Maintain professional boundaries (e.g., avoid dual relationships, conflicts of interest, social media contacts). This is not part of the client’s ABA treatment plan and Lyla is unfamiliar with how to play baseball or occupational therapy practices. Knowing that she works with her former client, Daria asks for a progress update on the client. The center could then choose whether or not they share that information with their clients. Our ABA program has established a core set of ethical principles to help meet this commitment. This includes records that are written, electronic, or in any other format. If the multiple relationship involves their supervisor, the RBT should report it to the person to whom their supervisor reports. Case Study:  Kelly is an English speaking RBT. If acted on, is this an ethical violation? If, when practicing under that credential, BACB credentialed professionals are presented with situations outside of their scope of current knowledge, they are obligated to seek assistance from those more experienced. Do No Harm 2. The BACB requires BACB Verified Course Sequences for BCBA-D, BCBA, and BCaBA credentials. One such resource, The Right to Effective Treatment (Van Houten, Axelrod, Bailey, Favell, Fox, Iwata, & Lovaas, 1988) outlines six guidelines and standards for individuals receiving behavior analytic services: 1. Case Study:  Meagan is a practicing RBT. Our goals are to implement ABA principles and follow ethical … Define Ethics 2. The BCBA also offers a model of how she would describe Bridget’s role and asked that the intake coordinator clarify this with the parent. _____________________________________________________________________________. Scott’s primary client is the child, not the parents and he must explain to the parents that he cannot ethically develop a plan of this nature, at this time, due to the present safety concerns. From the outset of their relationship with the BACB, RBT’s are required to provide accurate and current information when applying and re-applying for their certification. Madeline maintained her ethical obligation to her client by retaining all client records on her organization’s secured server before concluding employment. Ethics refers to behaviors, practices, and decisions that address three basic and fundamental questions (Reich, 1988; Smith, 1987; Smith, 1993): While these questions may appear simple to answer, many situations that paraprofessionals will encounter may not be simply answered by these three questions. The Pursuit of excellence is one core ethical principles in ABA. 3.08 If RBTs are involved in the delivery of non-behavior-analytic interventions, they do not make reference to, display, or otherwise use their RBT in that practice. Case Study: Jesse was collecting data and noticed that the last 5 sessions data points were not following the same pattern as the first 10 points. Key Principles of ABA (Kerr & Nelson, 2010) In managing classroom behavior and designing intervenons, it is crical that teachers understand these principles: • Consequences control … Risks can include inappropriate use of physical force, use of harmful reinforcers, or use of non-evidenced based treatment models. We develop functional and effective empirically-based treatments and interventions tailored to the individual's needs and learning. 1. Annabelle is promoting behavior analysis through a respected publication and she does not indicate who these clients are, so confidentiality is maintained. Following the investigation, Dr. Wakefield was removed of his medical license and his original article was fully retracted in 2010 (Rao & Andrade, 2011). Yes. Any potential threat to this right should first be evaluated by a Peer Review or Human Rights Committee. This code details those rights and the provision of those rights to clients. Welcome! Clients have a right to privacy. They share information for job-related purposes only. Notions of a lawyer’s core civility duty also are rooted in ethical principles informing and defining the practice of law. Case Study:  John is an RBT who no longer provides services to a client. There is an expectation that this information will be protected and disclosed only under specific circumstances. This course provides the student with an introduction to the concepts and principles of Behavior Analysis. This includes personal biases associated with gender, age, race, religion, or socioeconomic status and those biases due to dual relationships. The organization disposed of the client records 5 years after Madeline left the organization. Changes to certification status must be immediately reported to employers and supervisors. Yes. The client’s parent requests that Scott and his staff create a program to teach the client how to kayak. The RBT® Ethics Code (2018) was established by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® (BACB) to assist in navigating ethical situations that may arise while engaging with special populations. No. His state requires a time limit to file any suspicions of abuse as a mandated reporter. Identify the option that ensures/respects clients’ autonomy. It is important for practitioners at all professional levels consult with their supervisors, colleagues and/or mentors before making a final decision on a plan of action. Case Study:  Britney is an RBT for a client who just recently began receiving speech and language therapy. Case Study:  Bobby and his colleagues often discuss their client’s in inappropriate or negative terms and often in public places such as a restaurant or bar after work. RBTs only use relevant identifying information in their job-related communications (e.g., consultation, emails, reports). Teaching the mechanics of baseball is not in the client’s treatment plan and Lyla has no experience as an occupational therapist. Smith, D.H. (1987). Case Study: Jason needed clients and thought to himself, “Well, there is a center that diagnoses right down the street, I could stand outside of their center and talk tot parents that just received a diagnosis to tell them directly about my services.”. An introduction section describes the scope and application of the Code, its core principles, and considerations for ethical decision making. Being Truthful 6. The Code of Ethics aims to support practitioners facing any ethical conflicts which arise, and to remind us of the core values to which we are committed. 3.05 RBTs provide behavior technician services only within defined roles. In book: Practical Ethics for Effective Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (pp.1-16) (1988). If the matter meets the reporting requirements of the BACB, RBTs must submit a formal complaint to the BACB. This code protects consumers by ensuring those who call themselves Registered Behavior Technicians are qualified to represent themselves as such and to provide treatments rooted in science. Columbus, OH: Rao, T.S., & Andrade, C. (2011). Yes. Lora Anaya Senior Analyst, Paralegal, Contracts and Strategic Sourcing Mission Viejo, California 104 connections If the matter cannot be resolved informally, they report it to the appropriate authority (e.g., employer, director, regulatory authority). On the first day of services she implemented a behavior reduction plan with the parent’s consent and runs this plan for the next year. After identifying that he had sufficient time in his schedule to provide these services, he accepted the offer, wrote a contract and was paid by the family for his services at the same rates of reimbursement that the insurance company offers. The core principles … Encyclopedia Britannica. According Dignity 7. He found it difficult to explain the last 5 data points. Meagan can maintain her RBT certification while enrolled and conducting coursework towards a BCBA certification. Regardless of the conditions under which she was hired, if a parent requests that information, Sheri is still required to provide that information to the parent. Interdisciplinary Collaboration 7. should be updated with the BACB immediately. Core Ethical Principles In their book Ethics in Psychology, Koocher and Keith-Spiegel (1998) outlined nine ethical principles for psychologists. Yes. 4. These situations include: conflicts of interest, investment … Jenny has no experience with clients with this profile, so she reads one article on food desensitization and implements a program to increase food intake. She makes reference to a presentation she attended the previous month and cites it at the end of her presentation. Confidential information includes, but is not limited to: (1) information about anyone with whom the RBT works; or (2) information about anyone to whom the RBT provides services. ABA vendor •Describe best practices concerning assessment, planning & documentation according to BACB Code of Ethical & Professional Conduct •Identify how to become a TennCare MCO network ABA provider & bill successfully for services rendered. Yes. In addition, once an ethical issue has been identified, it is imperative that RBT’s acknowledge that there are varying complexities of ethical issues and complex cases require support from their supervising BCBA and often senior level clinicians such as a BCBA-D (Bailey & Burch, 2016). Contextual Factors that Influence Ethical Decision-Making 3. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 53(2), 95-96. No. 1.12 RBTs obtain permission to use trademarked or copyrighted materials as required by law. No. A therapeutic physical environment is achieved when basic human needs are met (e.g., food, water, shelter) client dignity is respected, and there are minimal external stressors. For example, non-vocal clients require augmentative communication supports to access their environment. Given questions about clinical scenarios, select the option that complies with the BACB’s Professional & … Any content provided by the BACB is considered property of the entity and upholding its integrity and the integrity of its certificants is of utmost priority to those certified by this Board. Lyla should inform his colleagues that it can be unethical to discuss their client’s in this manner. Clients have the right to the selection of goals that target socially significant behaviors, promote the client’s independence and foster socially valid behavior change. Case Study:  Sheri works in a public school setting as an RBT. 1. Even though the parent consented to Lauren’s plan, she has not conducted the necessary assessments to implement the behavior reduction plan. The non-reporting of this would be considered an ethical violation. Board of Commissioners on Grievances and Discipline and the American Bar Association Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility [2] have released Opinions ... system, legal landscape, disciplinary system and core ethical principles… 2.05 RBTs may not share identifying information about clients on social media. Had Jenny contacted a colleague who is competent in food desensitization, and through their training and supervision implemented this program then she would have fulfilled her ethical obligation to the client. Joey can volunteer for this committee. Identify ethical principles of ABA. Yes. By not speaking to her supervisor about the ethical violation and seeing the issue through to its resolution, she is not fulfilling her ethical obligation. Case Study:  A parent has asked Lyla to assist with occupational therapy skills to practice for a youth baseball league. This includes but is not limited to: (1) contacting relevant authorities; (2) following organizational policies; (3) consulting with their supervisor; and (4) documenting their efforts to address the matter. Business owners, attorneys, and medical professionals all have their own ethical codes of conduct. Case Study:  Jeff, a BCBA, has a friend whose child requires ABA services. These principles assist ABA students and program faculty to make ethical decisions and disseminate our … Common Errors and Mistakes Made During Ethical … Explain the advantages/disadvantages of the four ethical orientations in public relations pra… Our histories and experiences tell us that fraud and theft all violate the trust of consumers. Introduction to ABA, Ethics, and Core Ethical Principles. Case Study: Lauren has a new client who engages in aggression towards his sibling. Employee monies lost as a result of this scandal were never recouped (Bodarenko, 2016). The Code of Breathwork Practice This section is an application of the ethical principles … No. What is ABA? The Behavior Analyst should be keeping up with the latest … Under the direction of his supervising BCBA, he boxed up all client records and locked them in his organization’s file room. She cannot represent herself as a BCBA until she meets the criteria to do so by the BACB. Is this an ethical violation? John fulfilled all state, organizational, and BACB policies to adequately maintain the client’s records. 3. As a result, the client is exhibiting health issues. 2.07 RBTs protect the confidentiality and privacy of their clients. 2. No. The parents are insistent so he created the program. In turn, these supervised experiences will allow professionals at all levels to learn how to better navigate ethical issues. Mark cannot control what his client’s parent writes on her personal social media page. Case Study:  Jesse received a parking ticket. Creating Behavioral Systems to Support Ethical Behavior in Autism Treatment 4. No. this chapter introduces the nine RBT’s have a responsibility to maintain a client’s confidentiality by securing all written, electronic, and verbal documentation of services. Evidence-based Practice 6. Applying Fiduciary Principles and Ethics This course focuses on common client situations that may present ethical concerns for fiduciaries. 2.02 If RBTs become aware that a client’s legal rights are being violated, or if there is risk of harm, RBTs must take the necessary action to protect the client. It is going to help me develop better toilet training plans for my clients!”. Bodarenko, P. (2016) Enron Scandal. Behavior analytic principles should be implemented to promote appropriate skills and independence. When providing ABA services to a client with autism, the parent requests that he no longer implement DTT, but instead use and intervention that has very little scientific support. Despite his research, Bryan has been unable to identify this model as evidenced based for treatment of children with autism. She has removed herself from her supervisory responsibilities to pursue a romantic relationship with this RBT. Beneficence and nonmaleficence, two core ethical principles of the APA, includes protecting the consumer and taking care to do no harm (APA, 2010). Ultimately, the United States Department of Justice charged Chief Executive Officer, Kenneth Lay, Chief Financial Officer, Andrew Fastaw, and chief auditor, David Duncan and others with multiple counts of fraud and accounting charges that resulted in their imprisonment. That assessment should include an evaluation of the client’s current skills and deficits and the contributing variables affecting their current performance level. 3.02 RBTs follow the direction of their supervisors and inform them when they are asked to do something that goes beyond the scope of their certification. ABA Ethics Hotline Questions This is an independent Ethics Hotline with no connection with any other association or membership group. A parent has requested her RBT credentials. As a result of this lesson, students will be able to: 1. Ethics … Case Study: Mark has a client whose parent posted to her personal social media post about the great progress her son has made as a result of Mark’s services. If Amanda can keep her professional commitment to the additional hours per week, then she is maintaining her ethical obligation. ABA differs from other fields in … RBTs refrain from sexual relationships with former clients or supervisors for at least two (2) years following the date the working relationship ended. Lack of knowledge or understanding of this code does not excuse unethical conduct. They do not lead others to engage in fraudulent, illegal, or unethical conduct.