Term
Saying its never okay to accept a gift from a client The scenario is an example of which of the following approaches to moral and ethical codes?
A. Absolutist
B Relativist |
|
Definition
A. Absolutist
Ethics codified by fixed external criteria.
Commonly agreed upon standards |
|
|
Term
A behavior analyst is working with a 10-year-old client who frequently exhibits aggression toward peers. The team is considering two interventions:
• Option 1: Implement a contingent time-out procedure in the classroom.
• Option 2: Use response cost by removing tokens from a reinforcement system.
Before selecting an intervention, the analyst conducts a risk-benefit analysis. Which of the following BEST reflects the ethical reasoning behind this process?
A. To ensure the chosen procedure is the most restrictive option available to stop aggression immediately.
B. To weigh potential harm (e.g., emotional distress, social stigma) against expected benefits and select the least restrictive, most effective option.
C. To comply with school policy requiring documentation of all disciplinary actions.
D. To avoid any intervention that involves punishment, regardless of its effectiveness. |
|
Definition
1. Correct Answer:
B. To weigh potential harm (e.g., emotional distress, social stigma) against expected benefits and select the least restrictive, most effective option.
Rationale:
Cooper emphasizes that risk-benefit analysis is required before implementing any behavioral procedure and when choosing among evidence-based options. The goal is to balance risks (physical or emotional harm, stigma, intrusiveness) with benefits (effectiveness, skill acquisition) and select the least restrictive intervention likely to succeed, while involving key stakeholders in the decision-making process. |
|
|
Term
Question 2
A client begins violently hitting their head against a wall during a session, causing bleeding. The caregiver previously declined consent for protective equipment. What should the analyst do?
A. Apply protective equipment or block the behavior to prevent serious injury, then report and review consent procedures.
B. Respect the caregiver’s prior decision and avoid any intervention involving protective equipment.
C. Call the caregiver for verbal consent before acting, even if injury continues.
D. Terminate the session and leave the environment to avoid liability. |
|
Definition
2. ✅ Correct Answer: A
Rationale: When an imminent risk of serious harm exists, treatment without consent is ethically permissible. The analyst must act to protect safety and follow up with documentation and communication. |
|
|
Term
Question 5
Which of the following BEST describes the ethical obligation when third-party payment for services requires disclosure of client information?
A. Disclose all treatment details to ensure payment is processed quickly.
B. Share only the minimum necessary information required for payment and inform the client about this disclosure.
C. Refuse to disclose any information to protect confidentiality, even if payment is denied.
D. Provide verbal consent from the client after disclosure |
|
Definition
Correct Answer:
B. Share only the minimum necessary information required for payment and inform the client about this disclosure.
Rationale: Disclosure for third-party payment is permitted but must be minimal and transparent to the client.
Before initiation of services, the BSC must explain the limits of confidentiality to the client, document the meeting, and ensure that the client signs and dates the document. Disclosure of confidential information may occur without consent for a valid purpose defined by the following conditions. (1) mandated law. (2) comply with a court order. (3) when credible information suggests imminent harm or danger to the client or another person, (4) when an immediate crisis develops, (5) when third-party payment for services is involved
Whenever disclosure is necessary, it should be limited to the absolute minimum information necessary to meet the requirement of a valid purpose. |
|
|
Term
A behavior analyst is consulting with a colleague about a challenging case. Which approach BEST aligns with confidentiality requirements?
A. Share all client details, including name and location, to ensure accurate advice.
B. Discuss the case using de-identified information and only relevant details necessary for consultation.
C. Avoid consulting altogether because it violates confidentiality.
D. Obtain verbal consent from the client after the discussion. |
|
Definition
Correct Answer:
B. Discuss the case using de-identified information and only relevant details necessary for consultation.
Rationale: Ethical practice allows consultation if client identity is protected and information shared is minimal and relevant.
Disclosure of confidential information may occur without consent for a valid purpose defined by the following conditions. (1) mandated law. (2) comply with a court order. (3) when credible information suggests imminent harm or danger to the client or another person, (4) when an immediate crisis develops, (5) when third-party payment for services is involved
Whenever disclosure is necessary, it should be limited to the absolute minimum information necessary to meet the requirement of a valid purpose. |
|
|
Term
An analyst accidentally sends a progress report to the wrong email address. Which of the following actions BEST aligns with ethical guidelines?
A. Contact the unintended recipient, request deletion, and report the breach internally.
B. Do nothing unless the recipient responds.
C. Inform the client only if the recipient opens the email.
D. Resend the report to the correct recipient without addressing the error. |
|
Definition
Correct Answer:
A. Contact the unintended recipient, request deletion, and report the breach internally.
Rationale: Immediate corrective action and documentation are required for unintentional breaches.
2 main response classes: (a) valid disclosures without consent and (B) unintentional breaches resulting from carelessness, misunderstanding of confidentiality requirements, and negligent disregard. |
|
|
Term
During a session, a client begins showing signs of dehydration after vigorous physical activity. The analyst notices but continues with the session without offering water or breaks. Which BEST describes this situation?
A. Acceptable because hydration is not part of the treatment plan.
B. Negligence due to nonfeasance—failure to act to protect health and safety.
C. Ethical because the analyst is following the written protocol.
D. A confidentiality breach because the client’s condition was not reported. |
|
Definition
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Ignoring an obvious health risk constitutes nonfeasance and violates the obligation to protect client health and safety
Negligence: A failure to demonstrate professional integrity on the part of the provider that threatens the client's health and safety. It can be exhibited as nonfeasance, not doing what ought to be done, and when acting in an imprudent fashion. |
|
|
Term
The analyst decides to increase the duration of a time-out procedure beyond recommended limits to “make the point clear.” The client becomes highly distressed and refuses to return to class.
What BEST describes this?
A. Ethical because the goal was to reduce aggression.
B. Negligence due to imprudent action—exceeding safe procedural limits.
C. Acceptable if the teacher agreed to the change.
D. Confidentiality breach because the incident was documented. |
|
Definition
| Negligence: A failure to demonstrate professional integrity on the part of the provider that threatens the client's health and safety. It can be exhibited as nonfeasance, not doing what ought to be done, and when acting in an imprudent fashion. |
|
|
Term
A parent requests an intensive behavior plan for a child who has suddenly begun refusing food and showing severe tantrums during meals. What is the BEST initial step for the analyst?
A. Begin the behavioral intervention immediately to address refusal.
B. Advocate for a medical evaluation before proceeding with treatment.
C. Decline the case permanently because the parent ignored medical concerns.
D. Implement a token system while waiting for medical results. |
|
Definition
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Sudden onset of feeding issues may indicate a medical cause. Ethical advocacy requires ensuring that the problem is suitable for behavioral treatment before initiating intervention.
Advocating for the Client: Provide only necessary and Needed Services: Deciding to accept or reject a case. 2 sequential questions need to be answered FOR THIS: (1) Is the presenting problem amenable to behavioral intervention? (2) Is the proposed intervention likely to be successful?
Is the Problem Amenable to Behavior Treatment? To determine whether behavioral intervention is necessary and appropriate should answer these questions.
1. Has the Problem Behavior Emerged Suddenly? If yes
a. Might the problems have a medical cause?
B. Has a medical evaluation been done?
2. Is the problem with the client or with someone else?
3. Have other interventions been tried?
4. Does the problem actually exist?
5. Can the problem be solved simply or informally?
6. Should the problem be addressed better by another discipline?
7. Is the behavioral problem considered an emergency? |
|
|
Term
Jane former client of BCBA John, has a personal website where she praised John for helping her be able to gain skills in using the internet fluently. John later useses Janes information for his website BCBA Skills. Com.What if any unethically problems did John pertake in?
A. No Unethical Problems he was not post the original statement.
B. No Unethical Problems because this is a former client of jOHNS.
c. Yes there was an ethical problem because John should not have reposted these comments on his personal website.
D. Yes ther is a ethical problem because John should not have let Jane post these statements on her personal website. |
|
Definition
C. Yes there was an ethical problem because John should not have reposted these comments on his personal website.
Code Standard 5.07 Soliciting Testimonials from Current Clients for Advertising:
• If a caregiver posts information about their experiences on a site that you do not control, that does not count as testimonial. But if you become aware of it, you may not link to it or copy and paste it on your website. If you do, then that statement effectively becomes a testimonial. |
|
|
Term
A colleague of yours keeps over-promising and under-delivering by taking on too many clients and supervisees. Which of the 4 core ethical principles best applies?
A. Benefit others
B Treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect
C. Behave with integrity
D. Ensure competence |
|
Definition
C. Behave with integrity
Correct: “Following through on obligations” is one example of this core principle (see code introduction). This seems most relevant to the scenario.
Incorrect: Benefiting others has more to do with maximizing help and minimizing harm. <> It may be that this colleague is compassionate about others’ circumstances, although it is a matter of integrity in meeting obligations. <> This question doesn’t seem to directly involve the competence of the behavior analyst. Rather, it’s the failure to follow-through.
Incorrect: Assess Michael’s behavioral skills is a reasonable answer, but we need to know where to start. The records will likely help us determine if we are “starting from scratch” or not. <> Stephanie is actually determining the need for behavioral services, but she is doing this BY reviewing previous records. She can go from there. <> Conducting a functional assessment may become necessary, but isn’t a first step Cooper, 2020, p.49).
F.1. Identify relevant sources of information in records (e.g., educational, medical, historical) at the outset of the case. |
|
|
Term
Hector is a busy BCBA. He and his ABA practice keep taking on new clients and expanding the business. Some of his clients have been waiting for months to begin assessment, because Hector offers some other clients priority when they first come in. Hector’s behavior could result in which of the following?
A. A lack of accountability to clients
B. Ineffective supervision practices
C. A risk of staff attrition
D. Missed training opportunities |
|
Definition
A lack of accountability to clients
Correct: Hector is not being truthful with clients who are on the waiting list. The relevant Ethics Code is 1.03 Accountability: “Behavior analysts are accountable for their actions and professional services and follow through on work commitments. When errors occur, or commitments cannot be met, behavior analysts take all appropriate actions to directly address them, first in the best interest of clients, and then in the best interest of relevant parties.”
Incorrect: It’s a stretch to say that Hector’s behavior will make him an ineffective supervisor. The direct result of his dishonesty to clients is harm to them and to the profession. <> No staff is mentioned here, but even if it were, it doesn’t seem like keeping people on the waiting list would lead to staff leaving. <> The training opportunities with staff would still be present. It’s the communication, or lack thereof, with clients that is the problem.
E.2. Identify the risks to oneself, others, and the profession as a result of engaging in unethical behavior. |
|
|
Term
Julio is a BCBA who has a weekly ABA podcast in which he discusses a variety of topics related to the field. When someone calls in for advice on a problem that they are having, Julio should:
A. Offer specific advice only if Julio is competent in that area.
B. Offer his services to the caller.
C. Ask for a testimonial after answering the caller’s question.
D. Offer general advice and options for treatment |
|
Definition
Offer general advice and options for treatment
Correct: “Behavior analysts do not provide specific advice related to a client’s needs in public forums.” Julio can generally discuss a topic and what treatment might entail. It would be nice if he offered a referral service or resources of some kind. Notice that he SHOULD do this, because he CANNOT offer specific advice.
E.5. Identify and comply with requirements for making public statements about professional activities (e.g., social media activity; misrepresentation of professional credentials, behavior analysis, and service outcomes).
Incorrect: Even if Julio is competent, he shouldn’t offer specific advice in a public forum, because he hasn’t assessed this individual under a defined contractual relationship. <> Julio actually could offer his services, but this is about what he really SHOULD do or not. <> Julio could also ask for a testimonial from the caller. And, this isn’t quite about what he could do, but what he SHOULD. |
|
|
Term
Jose is a 25-year-old Board Certified Behavioral Analyst. His older brother, Pedro, is diagnosed with ASD. Pedro doesn’t go to the store anymore, as he was knocking over displays and screaming the last 3 times that he went. Jose has completed a functional assessment and determined that punishment will be a part of Pedro’s plan. Given the ethical considerations, what should Jose do next?
A.Ensure that reinforcement is also included along with punishment
B. Refer Pedro to another
C. BCBA: Determine whether Pedro has a guardian or not
D. Jose should operate within his scope of competence |
|
Definition
Refer Pedro to another
Correct: Jose cannot offer services to his own brother. This is a multiple relationship, and Jose needs to refer to another provider.
Incorrect: Yes, we must always use reinforcement along with punishment - should we determine that punishment is necessary. However, this case needs to first be given to someone with only a professional, rather than familial, interest. <> It is good to note that Pedro is an adult,t and this question will be important. The primary concern, however, is that Pedro will need another service provider. <> We actually aren’t told whether Jose has expertise, training, or experience with adults with ASD or in the behavior(s) described. For this to be an answer, we need to have been told that Jose DOESN’T have this training/experience. However, we ARE told that he is Pedro’s brother.
E.7. Identify types of and risks associated with multiple relationships, and how to mitigate those risks when they are unavoidable. |
|
|
Term
You are working with a team to serve a client that includes a speech/language pathologist. She suggests a change to the intervention plan that she believes will better align with her communication goals. What should you do in response?
A. Politely explain how evidence-based interventions are necessary
B. Attempt to understand and incorporate these changes, if they support client goals
C. Consider her suggestions, but defer until you can speak with your supervisor
D. Proceed with the original plan while you communicate that you’ll consider these suggestions |
|
Definition
Attempt to understand and incorporate these changes, if they support client goals.
Correct: In collaboration with other professionals, you should seek to understand other points of view. If suggestions for change are consistent with behavior analytic practices - at least not inconsistent with them - then you build and maintain a professional relationship AND support the client.
Incorrect: Yes, evidence-based practices are mandatory, and we don’t know what these suggestions are. So, implying that they are incompatible with evidence-based interventions is premature. <> What supervisor? Also, you need to ask enough questions to understand how these suggestions may fit or not. Tell her what you think right now, while you are communicating. <> You can proceed, of course. It just seems like better collaboration if you clarify what these suggestions are and any misgivings you may have, while you can communicate, rather than going off on your own to think about it.
E.8. Identify and apply interpersonal and other skills (e.g., accepting feedback, listening actively, seeking input, collaborating) to establish and maintain professional relationships. |
|
|
Term
| Sala created an intervention plan to reduce a client’s screaming and increase several communication skills, and you’re approved for up to 20 hours of service per month. When you present the plan to the family, they make it clear that the entire family needs to be involved, not just the client. What do you do? |
|
Definition
Update the service authorization request to include parent training
Correct: This is a question of family culture, but also one of efficiency. If parents want to be involved in helping their child, then we should not only listen but also facilitate this involvement.
Incorrect: Funding may be set for the moment, but you aren’t advocating for parents, your client, or showing cultural humility in just blowing them off. <> You may be able to convince parents to agree to your original plan, but this doesn’t take into account what the parents seem to be requesting. <> Yes, “Be humble.” Cultural humility is part of our ethical responsibility, but this answer doesn’t have any other actions, besides “listen.” We want to incorporate their desire to be involved.
E.9. Engage in cultural humility in service delivery and professional relationships. |
|
|
Term
Which answer is the most inclusive supervision practice?
A. Arranging time to chat individually with each supervisee and learn more about them personally.
B Personally inviting supervisees to your church’s annual picnic.
C. Ask your new supervisees to help educate current staff on their Indonesian heritage.
D. Relate to your supervisees that they can always come talk. Your door is always open. |
|
Definition
Arranging time to chat individually with each supervisee and learn more about them personally.
Correct: If you arrange time to talk, you are taking the initiative to get to know your supervisees. This also doesn’t put undue pressure on them to explain themselves or feel excluded.
Incorrect: Let’s start with “inclusive.” This means not only that someone isn’t left out, but that they are invited to add their culture, personality, and flavor to a group. Bringing someone to your church picnic is technically inviting, but it may also exclude those who don’t share your church’s ideology. This may not be a place for your supervisee to share their differing beliefs. <> I’m sure there’s a way to find out about someone’s heritage without putting them on the spot and saying, “Teach us ignorant folk.” While some people may be proud to share, some might be put off. I’d say, talk to people about themselves in private and then go from there. <> The invitation of an open door is nice, but leaves the onus on the supervisee to “make the first move.” Instead, find time to learn about your supervisees.
E.10. Apply culturally responsive and inclusive service and supervision activities. |
|
|
Term
You are just tired of hearing your occupational therapist colleagues talk about sensory integration and sensory diets. How might this affect your professional practices?
A. You might allow them to incorporate sensory integration into your collaborative intervention plans.
B. You might refuse to incorporate their sensory diets into your collaborative intervention plans.
C. You might stop listening to your colleagues, because you are pretty sure you know what they are going to say.
D. You might start to avoid seeing them around the clinic or outside of work. |
|
Definition
You might stop listening to your colleagues, because you are pretty sure you know what they are going to say.
Correct: Your bias may cause you to stop hearing what your colleagues are saying. I’m not even saying that is all bad, I’m just pointing out that biases influence what we do. It could be that an occupational therapist has a great suggestion, or would like to help, etc. and you’d want to be open to that.
Incorrect: Your bias seems to be that the OTs are saying the same thing all the time. This doesn’t lead into letting them get away with putting unproven interventions in place, though. <> Yes, you might (and should) refuse to incorporate their sensory diets, as it’s unproven and not evidence-based. This is regardless of your bias, though. <> Yes, you might avoid the OTs, but that’s not affecting your professional practice.
E.11. Identify personal biases and how they might interfere with professional activity. |
|
|
Term
Ethics are notoriously difficult to interpret and ever-changing. The Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts includes an introductory statement that says:
A. Client records must be kept for 7 years
B. Gifts may not be accepted from, nor offered to, clients
C. Misunderstanding the code is not a defense against alleged misconduct
D. Lack of funding is not an appropriate reason for termination of client services |
|
Definition
Misunderstanding the code is not a defense against alleged misconduct
Correct: Failing to understand or claims of ignorance of the code are not defenses against violations. This is the only statement true of the revised code. See “Application of the Code” in the Introduction section.
Incorrect: Client records must be kept by the individual provider or organization, consistent with “all applicable requirements” (whatever that means). Only documentation of supervision must be kept for 7 years (sections 2.05 and 4.05). <> Gifts may now be given or accepted, on an infrequent basis and for the equivalent of $10 or less. (section 1.12). <> Section 3.15 of the newest code now states that termination may occur when services are no longer funded. Also added, is a provision for termination if clients/stakeholders are uncooperative - assuming attempts have been made to resolve the situation.
E.12. Identify and apply the legal, regulatory, and practice requirements (e.g., licensure, jurisprudence, funding, certification) relevant to the delivery of behavior analytic services. |
|
|
Term
14
Melissa is the mother of Jose, a young child with ASD. Jose started therapy services with a local BCBA. After the first two weeks, Mike reported to Melissa that her son was making progress in his ability to wash his hands and speak spontaneously. However, Melissa did not witness an increase in these skills at home or school. Melissa requested to sit in on a session in the clinic. When she arrived, she noticed that the therapist was helping her son wash his hands after lunch, and all of Jose’s requests were prompted by the therapist. Melissa was shocked at the sight of all this and immediately requested to terminate services. Which seems the most relevant ethical code for Mike to review?
A. Being accountable for one’s actions
B. Avoiding discrimination
C. Behave with integrity
D. Awareness of personal biases |
|
Definition
Behave with integrity
Correct: The Ethics Code’s introduction, under the heading “Behave with Integrity,” lists this bullet point: “Behaving in an honest and trustworthy manner.” The next most relevant code (1.01) states that behavior analysts “...provide truthful and accurate information to all required entities.” This includes parents, clients, and stakeholders. Maybe Mike had good intentions (maybe not), but he wasn’t honest about communicating progress with Jose’s mother.
Incorrect: Mike does need to be accountable for his actions, and probably try to correct the situation with Jose’s mother. While taking responsibility may be helpful, the problem in the first place was dishonest communication,n and Mike needs to remedy this in the future. <> The scenario doesn’t appear to indicate discrimination against Jose or his mother based on proscribed characteristics such as sex, race, or ethnicity. <> It’s possible that Mike’s bias caused him to inflate Jose’s progress when communicating with his mother, but this isn’t explicit. What is most clear is that Mike portrayed Jose’s progress dishonestly.
E.1. Identify and apply core principles underlying the ethics codes for BACB certificants (e.g., benefit others; treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect; behave with integrity). |
|
|
Term
Going through a particularly difficult emotional situation in your personal life, you wonder if it has affected your ability to provide quality services to your clients. This thought is most relevant to which of the 4 core principles of the ethical code for behavior analysts?
A. Benefit others
B. Treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect
C. Behave with integrity
D.. Ensure competence |
|
Definition
A. Benefit others
Correct: The most relevant principle here is your ability to provide benefit to your clients (or not).
Incorrect: Perhaps treating yourself and others with respect is also relevant. However, the most directly relevant question is whether clients are able to benefit and whether you are able to provide this for them. <> Integrity involves the follow-through with obligations. The scenario given doesn’t yet rise to the level of failing to meet these obligations. It is only concerned with the question of your ability to do so. <> Competence “at the moment” may be the consideration in this situation, although competence generally deals with your experience, training and knowledge.
E.1. Identify and apply core principles underlying the ethics codes for BACB certificants (e.g., benefit others; treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect; behave with integrity). |
|
|
Term
Roberto is a behavior analyst who grew up in a small town. He has recently begun working with a family in inner-city Detroit. Roberto has found that he is fearful and somewhat judgmental when driving through the family’s neighborhood. The family has reported great progress since beginning to work with Roberto. What, if anything, needs to be done in this scenario?
A. Roberto needs to attend a cultural competency training
B.Roberto should transition the client to an analyst without biases
C.. Roberto needs to discuss his biases with the family
D. Roberto should continue care as normal |
|
Definition
D. Roberto should continue care as normal.
Roberto has identified that he has some biases, and he has not allowed these biases to impact the treatment of his client – at least we aren’t told that this is a problem. Since he has recognized and not allowed this to impact treatment, there is nothing further he needs to do. If he finds that these biases are impacting the treatment of his client, he should address them (BACB ethics code 1.07).
Incorrect: Please, let’s all admit that we have biases. It’s a product of reinforcement and experience. Addressing them directly and honestly is the only way to guard against negative impacts from them. <> There is no need to discuss the biases with the family or transition the client as Roberto’s biases have not impacted the treatment of the client. <> A cultural competency training might help Roberto in the long run, but it is not ethically required at this point.
E.11. Identify personal biases and how they might interfere with professional activity. |
|
|
Term
John owns an ABA company and has been conducting an internal audit to ensure services have been delivered and billed correctly. John notices that one of the BCBAs at the company has not been providing parent training to lower-income families. When John asked the BCBA about it, he said, “They always seem busy working, or look really tired. And, they really don’t ask questions. So, parent training seems like a waste of time.” What should John’s next step be?
A. Set up a cultural humility training for all employees
B.Contact the BACB and report an ethical violation
C. Relate the importance of providing equal opportunities for parent involvement.
D. Tell the BCBA that parent training, two hours weekly, is part of the intervention authorization. |
|
Definition
A. Relate the importance of providing equal opportunities for parent involvement.
Correct: D – This question relates to ethics code 1.08 Nondiscrimination, which states that we cannot discriminate based on socioeconomic status. The BCBA is not providing parent training because of the opinions he has about lower socioeconomic families. The BCBA may even be correct about his observation much of the time, but he’s assuming it rather than making the attempt with each family. He needs to provide the opportunity for parents to help their children, regardless of whether he thinks they have the energy or time – maybe he can learn to do it more efficiently. John needs to address this ethical violation directly with the BCBA and document his efforts to do so.
Incorrect: You should only notify the BACB after failing to address an ethical violation on your own and documenting your efforts to do so. <> If parent training is part of the plan, it should be attempted. This can change with circumstances. The point isn’t that it’s authorized or that the BCBA is supposed to do it, but that he is choosing not to attempt because of his bias. <> Setting up a staff-wide training is a good idea in general, but it doesn’t directly address the situation of the BCBA not providing parent training to lower socioeconomic families.
E.9. Engage in cultural humility in service delivery and professional relationships. |
|
|
Term
While supervising a client in their joint therapy room, you see a behavior tech whom you do not supervise, and add information to the data collection app that did not occur. You know the data did not occur as the tech’s client has not arrived yet. When abiding by the ethical decision-making process, what should you do first?
A. Report the individual to the board
B. Address the issue with the therapist's supervisor
C. Define the issue and consider the risk of harm to relevant individuals
D. Address the issue with the therapist |
|
Definition
Define the issue and consider the risk of harm to relevant individuals.
Correct: There are 11 steps in the ethical decision-making process set out by the board in the introduction to the code of ethics. We recommend checking this out on pages 5 and 6. While these aren’t mandatory, they are good guidelines. Step number one is that when you have identified an ethical issue, you should define it and consider the potential risk of harm to relevant individuals. This will allow you to determine the best next steps (BACB Ethics Code). Incidentally, my next step would be to address the issue immediately and directly with the individual and then report to their supervisor.
Incorrect: Addressing the issue with the therapist is a possible outcome and will likely be taken. However, the question asks about following the decision-making steps. First, we should take five seconds and consider before acting. Addressing the issue with the therapist or even their supervisor would fall under step 10. <> Reporting the individual to the board would also fall under step 10. However, this would be reserved for extreme cases, and we should remember to attempt to resolve the situation on our own first.
E.1. Identify and apply core principles underlying the ethics codes for BACB certificants (e.g., benefit others; treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect; behave with integrity). |
|
|
Term
Jules is a very efficient and punctual BCBA. She recently moved to American Samoa to run a new clinic there. Fairly quickly, she noticed that clients were often late for appointments and was told that she was now on “island time.” Which is the most ethical response to Jules’ problem?
A. Assess her client’s motivations to adjust policies to fit
B. Fully inform current and future clients of the importance of keeping a schedule
C Implement a policy of canceling appointments when clients are more than 15 minutes late
D. Provide a cash incentive for arriving on-time to appointments |
|
Definition
A Assess her client’s motivations to adjust policies to fit
The answer to most problems, including this one, is to assess. Jules should investigate and have some cultural humility, or willingness to understand cultural differences. Whatever policies may result should first come from this investigation.
Incorrect: Canceling appointments may work, and it may not. This is punitive, but the main point is that it doesn’t address whatever motivations there may be for tardiness. <> A cash incentive sounds good. That is, it’s positive reinforcement and should be acceptable. However, it doesn’t try to assess the situation first and doesn’t take cultural differences into account. <> Reminding or admonishing clients is a strategy to make punctuality more salient, but fails in attempting to understand first.
E.9. Engage in cultural humility in service delivery and professional relationships. |
|
|
Term
You are one of two BCBAs in your rural Idaho county. You’ve recently taken a job at the school where your children attend. The school administrator has asked that you take on a client who is in the same classroom as your child. How should you proceed?
A. Do not take on the client
B. Take on the client
C. Assist the administrator in finding another BCBA to serve the client
D. Ask that your child be moved to a different classroom |
|
Definition
B. Take on the client
Correct: It is not only important to know when something is unethical, but we should also know when something is ethical. In this situation, the client is not your child, and there should not be a multiple relationship that arises here. You may need to establish boundaries with your child that allow you to provide effective treatment and to keep information as confidential as possible, but this does not directly involve your client (BACB ethics code 1.11).
Incorrect: There is no need to refuse the client, as there is no clear multiple relationship here. <> Asking that your child be moved to a new classroom is likely overkill. If you can provide ethical services without being distracted by the fact that your child is in the classroom, there is nothing wrong with this situation.
E.7. Identify types of and risks associated with multiple relationships, and how to mitigate those risks when they are unavoidable. |
|
|
Term
Victoria and David finished their coursework together, studied for their exam together, and worked at the same company as clinical ABA supervisors. Over the past few years, they fell in love and were married. They remained professional and ensured they never broke any company policies. Victoria was recently promoted to Vice President of Clinical Affairs and is now David’s boss. The President of the company has agreed to oversee David’s clinical work. What are their ethical requirements at this point?
A. Nothing, as they have not broken any company policies
B. Nothing, as they are both behavior analysts, and there is no multiple relationship
C. Nothing more than reporting the agreement to the BACB
D. Nothing, as long as Victoria doesn’t supervise David |
|
Definition
A. Nothing, as long as Victoria doesn’t supervise David
1.11 Multiple Relationships in the ethical code relate directly to this scenario. The code states that behavior analysts avoid entering into or creating multiple relationships that include familial relationships with clients AND colleagues. They didn’t create this situation, but need to resolve any appearance of ethical concern. It seems that they have done this. Section 1.14 of the ethics code talks about sexual relationships and supervisees/trainees, too. My reading of this code suggests that Victoria can still have authority over David’s performance, except for his clinical work.
Incorrect: The ethical code is the consideration here, not the company’s policies. <> Solving the possible issue does not require a report to the BACB. <> There is a multiple relationship here. Luckily, there is also a good solution that meets ethical requirements.
E.7. Identify types of and risks associated with multiple relationships, and how to mitigate those risks when they are unavoidable. |
|
|
Term
Kat recently made a client goal of using a fork, knife, and spoon for a 5-year-old in a Chinese family who uses chopsticks at mealtime. Which core ethical principle is relevant to Kat’s situation?
A, Benefiting others
Incorrect
B.Behaving with integrity
C. Ensuring competence
Correct answer
D. Dealing in common courtesy |
|
Definition
C. Ensuring Competence
Part of ensuring competence is, as stated in the ethical code introduction, “Working to continually increase their knowledge and skills related to cultural responsiveness and service delivery to diverse groups.” Kat is providing services to diverse groups, but she is not providing services that culturally align with them.
Incorrect: Behaving with integrity involves following through with obligations to clients, scientific and professional communities, and society. There is no indication that she is not following through with her obligations. <> Breaching common courtesy isn’t a phrase mentioned in the ethics code, although it seems to intuitively apply. <> Benefiting others has to do with doing no harm to clients. None of Kat’s goals actively harm the clients. The bigger issue is that the goals are not culturally responsive.
E.10. Apply culturally responsive and inclusive service and supervision activities. |
|
|
Term
You are a BCBA, and you have been working with Sarah Beth for the last 3 years. The family’s health insurance is through her father’s work. Her mother is a stay-at-home mom, and her dad, unfortunately, just lost his job. They are concerned about being able to afford services while her father is between jobs. Which of the following next steps would NOT be appropriate?
A. Increase services until the insurance expires
B. Provide services pro bono
C. Discontinue services
D. Provide bartered services |
|
Definition
A. Increase services until the insurance elapses
This scenario relates to Ethics Code 3.05 Financial Agreements and 3.15 Appropriately Discontinuing Services. When funding sources change, they need to be revisited. It would be unethical to increase the service agreement, simply because we want to get the most out of the insurance before it lapses. Instead, we bill for an amount of service that is appropriate to our client.
Incorrect: B – According to Ethics Code 3.05 Financial Agreements, we are allowed to provide pro bono services if there is a specific service agreement and it complies with the code. C – According to Ethics Code 3.05 Financial Agreements and 3.15 Appropriately Discontinuing Services, there are six reasons to discontinue services. Services no longer being funded is one of them. D – According to Ethics Code 3.05 Financial Agreements, we are allowed to provide bartered services if there is a specific service agreement and it complies with the code.
E.6. Identify the conditions under which services or supervision should be discontinued and apply steps that should be taken when transitioning clients and supervisees to another professional. |
|
|
Term
Which of the following would NOT serve as a way that a behavior analyst would maintain their competence?
A. Follow through with obligations
B. Attend a state ABA conference
Incorrect
C. Be informed on the latest pseudosciences
D. Studying cultural nuances of local groups |
|
Definition
A. Follow through with obligations
Correct: Ensuring competence is a core goal of behavior analysts. To do this they can increase their knowledge of best practices, study breakthroughs in the field, attend conferences, ensure they are up to date and knowledgeable on pseudoscience, increase their cultural competence, and practice within their competence. Following through on their obligations is critical, but falls under the behaving with integrity core principle of behavior analysts (BACB Ethical Code).
Incorrect: The pseudoscience got me the first time I read this answer, too. It’s not that you want to go practicing pseudoscience, but it is helpful to be able to counter unscientific and unscrupulous claims out there. <> Attending conferences and being educated on local cultural norms are ways to maintain competence.
E.3. Develop and maintain competence by engaging in professional development activities (e.g., read literature, seek consultation, establish mentors |
|
|
Term
During a recent supervision session, you notice that there are bruises on your client’s back. When you ask the RBT if they have noticed them previously. They tell you that the caregivers have reported that the client bruises easily. The RBT also mentions that the visible bruises were from the unsteadiness of the client, witnessed by the RBT. What should you do next?
A. Speak with the caregivers about the bruises
B. Report the incident yourself
Incorrect
C. Ask the RBT to report the incident
D. Ask the RBT to monitor and record further injury |
|
Definition
D. Ask the RBT to monitor and record further injury
Correct: First, let me acknowledge that this is a tough situation to deal with. Now, if you ever witness a scenario where you think that it should be reported, then you should report it. The question comes down to understanding where these bruises came from. If the RBT’s explanation is a sound one, then monitoring the situation seems appropriate (BACB ethics code 2.04).
Incorrect: If the RBT has witnessed the cause of the bruising (accidents), they don’t need to report. If you suspect abuse, you WOULD need to report. Here, we seem to have the cause of the bruising. <> When there is a situation of potential abuse or neglect, you should not approach the caregivers with this as it can irreparably damage the relationship. Instead, report it to the proper local authority and allow them to address the situation. <> If you suspect abuse, you should report it. This is even the case if you are the RBT’s supervisor and they have told you about a suspicion of abuse. You can direct them to make a report, but now YOU also have a “ball in your court,” so to speak.
E.12. Identify and apply the legal, regulatory, and practice requirements (e.g., licensure, jurisprudence, funding, certification) relevant to the delivery of behavior analytic services. |
|
|
Term
The ethical code requires that all client records be retained for:
A. 7 years
B. The length required by law
C. 9 years
D. 10 years |
|
Definition
B
Correct: This is a bit of a tricky situation, but the ethical code does not explicitly list the amount of time that records for clients must be kept. Instead, the code states that records must be kept for whatever the organizational policies and applicable local, state, federal law requires (whichever is greater) (BACB Ethics Codes 2.05 Document Retention).
Incorrect: This one is pretty straightforward. The 7-year requirement is (now) only for supervision records and contracts with supervisees. The requirement for clients is simply whatever the organization or state requires as stated above.
E.4. Identify and comply with requirements for collecting, using, protecting, and disclosing confidential information. |
|
|
Term
You are asked by a parent to provide counseling services for a typically developing young teen who lacks motivation in school. You have professional experience and training with families and typically developing children. You should.
A. Explain that you do not provide "counseling" and therefore cannot help them.
B. Educate the parent on the ineffectiveness of counseling compared to behavior analysis in achieving behavior change.
C.Explain that you do not provide "counseling," but you can work with them in other ways.
D. Decline the case. |
|
Definition
C.Explain that you do not provide "counseling," but you can work with them in other ways.
Behavior analysts provide services, teach, and conduct research only within the boundaries of their competence, based on their education, training, supervised experience, or appropriate professional experience. Behavior analysts are also truthful and correct inaccuracies, such as clarifying that behavior analysts use techniques other than counseling to help solve problems. |
|
|
Term
A BCBA decides to start an online forum to answer questions about applying ABA to personal situations. They are newly certified, but they have professional relationships with many other BCBAs. The BCBA's supervisor is a former editor of JABA and has agreed to help.
A. The BCBA should advise on this forum.
B. The BCBA is drawing their supervisor and maybe their colleagues into an unethical model of service delivery.
D. The BCBA is acting responsibly as long as they give general information about behavior analysis and refrain from giving specific advice.
C. Regardless of the BCBA'S background, the supervisor should direct the BCBA to confine their activities to areas in which they are experienced. |
|
Definition
| With the help of the supervisor and other colleagues, the BCBA should be able to provide general information about behavior analysis or a format for others to respond. The BCBA should avoid giving specific clinical advice because an online forum lacks the customary procedure to ensure client rights and effective treatment. |
|
|
Term
You have an opportunity to lead an interdisciplinary research team in a new area that is outside your areas of competence. To stay compliant with the Ethics Code, you may.
A.Decline the offer because you do not have competence in the area.
B. Accept the offer with the understanding that you do not have competence but will have access to consultation from a skills behavioral colleague.
C. Accept the offer with the provision that you will complete training and receive consultation in the area before conducting research.
D. All of the above. |
|
Definition
D. All of the above.
Behavior analysts provide services, teach, pr conduct research in new areas or involving new techniques only after first understanding appropriate study training supervision and/or consultation from persons who are competent in those areas or techniques. |
|
|
Term
The types of continuing education recognized by the Behavior Analysis Certification Board include.
A. Scholarship
B. Education
C. Supervision
D. all of the above |
|
Definition
A. SCholarship
Can earn 3 types of CEUS
1. Learning- Events offered by ACE providers, certification activities by the BACB, or behavior analytic graduate courses.
2) Teaching: Teaching ACE events or teaching university courses in BA.
3) Scholarship-Publishing a behavior analytic article in a peer-reviewed journal or writing a review or decision letter for an article submitted to a peer review jornal. |
|
|
Term
You have an opportunity to lead an interdisciplinary research team in a new area that is outside your area of competence. To stay compliant with the Ethics Code, you may?
A.Decline the offer because you do not have competence in the area.
B. Accept the offer with the understanding that you do not have competence but will have access to consultation from a skills behavioral colleague.
C. Accept the offer with the provision that you will complete training and receive consultation in the area before conducting research.
D. All of the above. |
|
Definition
A.Decline the offer because you do not have competence in the area.
Behavior analysts provide services, teach, or conduct research in new areas or involving new techniques only after first understanding appropriate study training, supervision, and/or consultation from persons who are competent in those areas or techniques. In new areas of research or pactice behavior analysts can decline an assignment or conditionally accept an assignment if there is appropriate training and consultation support. |
|
|
Term
Completing a college course in behavior analysis can be used to earn CEUs in:
A. Learning
B. Scholarship
C. Teaching
D. None of the above. |
|
Definition
Learning
CEUs can be earned by completing a graduate-level college or university course providing the certificant has a C or better grade in the course. One academic semester credit is worth 15 CEUS and 1 quarter credit is worth 10 Ceus in typical North American Institutions. |
|
|
