Ethics and Professional Conduct
Core principles
Ethical practice rests on beneficence, do what is needed and no harm, autonomy, fidelity, integrity, justice, and dignity. Candidates should be able to map a scenario to a principle and to the correct action sequence: identify the issue, consult the code, seek supervision or consultation, act, and document. The most common exam trap is choosing a response that protects the behavior analyst's convenience rather than the client's welfare.
Informed consent and assent
Informed consent requires capacity, voluntariness, disclosure of risks and alternatives, and documentation. When a client cannot consent, obtain consent from a legally authorized representative and assent from the client where feasible. Consent is ongoing, not a single signature.
Risk-benefit and least restrictive
Weigh risks against benefits; prefer the least restrictive effective procedure; ensure the client's rights to services, dignity, and least restrictive treatment are protected. Confidentiality has limits defined by law and safety.
Supervision and multiple relationships
Supervisees must practice within their competence and receive documented supervision. Avoid multiple relationships that could impair objectivity or exploit; when unavoidable, manage and disclose. Mandated reporting and duty-to-warn obligations override confidentiality when law requires.
Rule of thumb
When two answers both seem ethical, choose the one that (a) prioritizes client welfare, (b) involves consultation or supervision, and (c) is documented.
Worked example
A parent asks a behavior analyst to use a punishment procedure without assessment. The ethical response is to explain the need for functional assessment, discuss less restrictive alternatives, obtain informed consent for any procedure, and document the discussion-not to comply because the parent requested it.