Ethical and Professional Conduct Flashcards

A BCBA is working with a client whose family requests that the behavior analyst use a punishment procedure not supported by research. What is the most ethical course of action?

Answer: Refuse to implement it and explain the requirement to use evidence-based interventions

The BACB Ethics Code requires BCBAs to rely on scientific evidence and use evidence-based interventions, even when clients or caregivers request otherwise.

Which scenario best illustrates a conflict of interest that a BCBA must disclose?

Answer: All of the above represent conflicts requiring disclosure

All listed scenarios involve relationships or financial interests that could influence professional judgment and must be disclosed under the BACB Ethics Code.

Under the BACB Ethics Code, how should a BCBA handle a situation where a supervisee is implementing an intervention incorrectly despite repeated feedback?

Answer: Document concerns and, if unresolved, take formal corrective action or terminate the supervisory relationship

BCBAs must document supervisory concerns and take formal corrective action, up to and including termination of the supervisory relationship, if a supervisee does not improve.

A BCBA discovers that a colleague submitted falsified session notes to a funding source. What does the BACB Ethics Code require the BCBA to do?

Answer: Address the issue internally with the colleague first, then report if unresolved

The BACB Ethics Code requires BCBAs to first attempt to resolve ethical issues informally when appropriate before escalating to formal reporting.

Which of the following best describes the principle of 'least restrictive effective intervention' in ABA ethics?

Answer: Selecting interventions that achieve behavior change goals while minimizing restrictions on client freedom and dignity

Least restrictive effective intervention means choosing procedures that achieve clinical goals while imposing the minimum necessary limitations on client autonomy and dignity.

A BCBA in private practice wants to advertise their services using a client success story. Which approach is ethically permissible?

Answer: Use the story with all identifying information removed after obtaining written client consent

Advertising with client information requires both written informed consent and removal of identifying details to protect client confidentiality.

When a BCBA is providing services via telehealth, which ethical obligation remains unchanged compared to in-person services?

Answer: The requirement to obtain informed consent before beginning services

Informed consent is a foundational ethical requirement that applies equally to telehealth and in-person ABA services.