Ethics Standards Quick Reference (Key Points)

Slippery Slope Context

People are not inherently unethical; environmental contingencies influence behavior (slippery slope/boiling frog idea).
Consider how contingencies shape honesty and ethical behavior in supervisees and colleagues.

Be truthful and forthcoming; say "I’m not sure" if truly unsure.
Arrange the environment to promote truthful behavior in others (e.g., supervisees).
Do not promote deception with problematic contingencies (e.g., overly aggressive targets tied to rewards).
Correct untruthful or inaccurate writings; reissue reports with correct data.
Use contracts: define services, scope, and accountability in writing before starting.
Example: addressing misinformation in public posts by citing the code and requesting correction.

Behavior analysts follow the law; practice within licensure and setting requirements.
When best practice conflicts with law (e.g., service hour distribution vs. least restrictive environment), prioritize legal and rights-based considerations.
You are responsible for your actions; cannot blame the code for ethical violations.
Stay informed: the code evolves over time; ensure written communication of services and expectations.
Developing a contract is a best first step.

Your scope of competence is not the same as your scope of possibility or understanding.
Do not practice beyond your competence; refer to experts or gain training/supervision.
Reading an article is not sufficient for maintained competence.
Supervision and fieldwork are required to expand competence.

Culture is a set of practices and values of a group (Skinner’s view): not limited to ethnicity.
Culture can be any group with its own customs, traditions, language.
Culture can be described as meta-contingencies shaping behavior.
Actively acquire knowledge and skills related to cultural responsiveness; do not need to know everything about a culture to support clients.
Be open to listening and learning; address biases within yourself and others.
Do not discriminate or harass; actively work to dismantle discrimination and create safe environments.
Reflect on personal biases; cultural humility is an ongoing process.

Avoid professional and personal relationships with the same client or stakeholder.
Maintain professional boundaries; home-based services increase risk of boundary issues.
Establish clear policies and statements at service outset to prevent multiple relationships.
Personal gifts: gifts may be accepted if monetary value is below a threshold.
Before revisions: gifts up to 10 US dollars are allowed to acknowledge gratitude; larger gifts should be declined or discussed.
Coercion and exploitation should be avoided; be aware of power differentials; set clear expectations from the start of supervisory/clinical relationships.
Romantic or sexual relationships with clients, stakeholders, trainees, or supervisees are prohibited.
If a romantic relationship ends, a professional relationship may not resume for at least 6 months; a new professional relationship with the same parties should not begin until after this period.
Do not engage in romantic/sexual relationships with former clients or stakeholders for at least 2 years after the professional relationship ends.

Conduct practice openly; avoid hiding information; keep data organized and accessible for requests.
Respond to information requests in a timely manner; comply with self-reporting and practice requirements from BACB, licensure boards, or funding agencies.
BACB requires self-disclosure of disciplinary actions, sanctions, or public health/safety violations.
The overarching purpose of these requirements is the protection and well-being of clients.