DM

EAB 4782 Week 2 Ethical Challenges and Decision Making

Ethical Challenges for AVG Citizens & Behavior Analysts

Childhood to Adulthood

  • Children learn ethical rules from their family, community, and culture.
  • Parents and other adults play a significant role in shaping future ethical conduct.
  • There is no universally consistent ethical code for all citizens.

Personal vs. Professional Ethics

  • Personal ethics:
    • These are loosely formed rules based on life experiences.
  • Professional ethics:
    • These are explicit rules, as found in the behavior analysis profession.
  • The shift from personal to professional ethics can pose difficulties.

Favors

  • Favors are common in personal relationships.
  • However, they can create ethical dilemmas in professional contexts.
  • Example: Conducting therapy sessions in unsuitable or inappropriate environments.

Gossip

  • Gossip is widespread in popular culture and everyday life.
  • Behavior analysts may face the temptation to discuss clients.
  • Maintaining client confidentiality is of utmost importance.

White Lies

  • Often used in personal life to avoid conflict.
  • Not acceptable for behavior analysts.
  • Code 1.01 requires that behavior analysts always be truthful.

Appreciation and Gift Giving

  • Common practice in personal relationships.
  • In professional settings, it leads to dual-role relationships.
  • Code 1.12 sets a $$10 limit on the value of gifts that behavior analysts can accept.

Advice

  • Freely exchanged in personal relationships.
  • Behavior analysts need to be very careful when giving advice.
  • It's important to respect privacy and confidentiality (Code 2.03).

Responsibility

  • The general population often avoids responsibility.
  • Behavior analysts must ensure that agreements are followed through.
  • Accountability is essential in professional practice.

Transition from Citizen to Professional

  • Abandoning pre-ABA standards that conflict with professional ethics.
  • Adhering to strict Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts.
  • Dealing with potential conflicts and temptations.

Ethical Challenges in Daily Practice

  • Interacting with clients, trainees, and other professionals.
  • Maintaining ethical standards despite external pressures.
  • Balancing personal history with professional requirements

Benefits of Professional Ethics

  • Enhances the integrity of the behavior analysis profession.
  • Provides clear guidelines for behavior.
  • Protects both clients and practitioners.

Strategies for Ethical Practice

  • Regularly review the Ethics Code.
  • Seek guidance when facing ethical dilemmas.
  • Prioritize client welfare and confidentiality.

Continuous Ethical Development

  • Recognize that ethical challenges are ongoing.
  • Stay updated on ethical guidelines and best practices.
  • Engage in professional development and peer discussions.

Embracing Ethical Excellence

  • Acknowledge the importance of transitioning to professional ethics.
  • Commit to upholding the highest ethical standards.
  • Contribute to the integrity and growth of the behavior analysis field.

Ethical Decision Making for Behavior Analysts

Simple vs. Complex Ethical Questions

  • Simple Questions:
    • Straightforward yes/no answers.
  • Complex Questions:
    • Evolve over time.
    • May involve multiple parties.

Flowchart for Simple Ethical Questions

  • Identify the issue.
  • Consult the Ethics Code.
  • Meet with the appropriate person.
  • Suggest a solution.
  • Follow up and document.

Complex Ethical Dilemmas

  • Require thorough analysis.
  • May involve multiple stakeholders.
  • Potential for significant consequences.

Seven-Step Model for Complex Cases

Step 1: Consult the Ethics Code

  • Review core principles.
  • Identify relevant Code Standards.
  • Use the BACB website or Ethics Code index.

Step 2: Identify Stakeholders

  • Behavior analyst
  • Client(s)
  • Supervisor
  • Agency head
  • Other organizations (e.g., insurance companies)

Step 3: Gather Information

  • Client welfare is paramount.
  • Understand conflicting interests.
  • Recognize potential allies and adversaries.
  • Consider learning history and biases.
  • Consult resources

Step 4: Assess Risk

  • Client well-being
  • Potential job loss
  • Professional integrity
  • Legal and ethical obligations.

Step 5: Develop Contingency Plans

  • Plan A: Initial approach
  • Plan B: Alternative strategy
  • Plan C: Further options if needed
  • Reduce harm & prioritize client

Step 6: Potential Courses of Action

  • Discuss with supervisor/owner
  • Inform parents
  • Report to insurance company
  • Seek guidance from colleagues

Step 7: Documentation and Follow-up

  • Keep detailed records of actions taken
  • Set deadlines
  • Monitor outcomes
  • Be prepared for further steps if necessary

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize client welfare
  • Adhere to Ethics Code
  • Be prepared for challenges
  • Seek support when needed