Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts

Ethics Code for

Behavior Analysts

The Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts (Code) replaces the Professional and Ethical

Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts (2014). All BCBA and BCaBA applicants

and certiﬁcants are required to adhere to the Code eective January 1, 2022.

This document should be referenced as:

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board. (2020). Ethics code for behavior analysts.

https://bacb.com/wp-content/ethics-code-for-behavior-analysts/

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 2

Table of Contents

Introduction ........................................................................ 3

Scope of the Code ................................................................................................... 3

Core Principles ......................................................................................................... 4

Application of the Code ..........................................................................................5

Enforcement of the Code .......................................................................................6

Glossary ............................................................................. 7

Ethics Standards ................................................................ 9

Section 1—Responsibility as a Professional ......................................................9

1.01 Being Truthful ........................................................................................... 9

1.02 Conforming with Legal and Professional Requirements...........9

1.03 Accountability..........................................................................................9

1.04 Practicing within a Deﬁned Role .......................................................9

1.05 Practicing within Scope of Competence .......................................9

1.06 Maintaining Competence ....................................................................9

1.07 Cultural Responsiveness and Diversity ..........................................9

1.08 Nondiscrimination ..................................................................................9

1.09 Nonharassment ...................................................................................... 9

1.10 Awareness of Personal Biases and Challenges ...........................9

1.11 Multiple Relationships ........................................................................... 10

1.12 Giving and Receiving Gifts ................................................................. 10

1.13 Coercive and Exploitative Relationships ....................................... 10

1.14 Romantic and Sexual Relationships................................................. 10

1.15 Responding to Requests ..................................................................... 10

1.16 Self-Reporting Critical Information ................................................... 10

Section 2—Responsibility in Practice ............................................................... 10

2.01 Providing Eective Treatment.......................................................... 10

2.02 Timeliness ............................................................................................. 10

2.03 Protecting Conﬁdential Information .............................................. 10

2.04 Disclosing Conﬁdential Information ................................................ 11

2.05 Documentation Protection and Retention .................................... 11

2.06 Accuracy in Service Billing and Reporting ...................................11

2.07 Fees ..........................................................................................................11

2.08 Communicating About Services ...................................................... 11

2.09 Involving Clients and Stakeholders ................................................ 11

2.10 Collaborating with Colleagues ..........................................................11

2.11 Obtaining Informed Consent ...............................................................11

2.12 Considering Medical Needs ..............................................................12

2.13 Selecting, Designing, and Implementing Assessments ...........12

2.14 Selecting, Designing, and Implementing Behavior-

Change Interventions ..............................................................................12

2.15 Minimizing Risk of Behavior-Change Interventions ...................12

2.16 Describing Behavior-Change Interventions

BeforeImplementation ...........................................................................12

2.17 Collecting and Using Data ..................................................................12

2.18 Continual Evaluation of the Behavior-Change Intervention ....12

2.19 Addressing Conditions Interfering with Service Delivery ........12

Section 3—Responsibility to Clients and Stakeholders ...............................13

3.01 Responsibility to Clients......................................................................13

3.02 Identifying Stakeholders ....................................................................13

3.03 Accepting Clients.................................................................................13

3.04 Service Agreement .............................................................................13

3.05 Financial Agreements ........................................................................13

3.06 Consulting with Other Providers .....................................................13

3.07 Third-Party Contracts for Services ..................................................13

3.08 Responsibility to the Client with Third-Party Contracts

forServices .................................................................................................13

3.09 Communicating with Stakeholders About Third-Party

Contracted Services ................................................................................14

3.10 Limitations of Conﬁdentiality .............................................................14

3.11 Documenting Professional Activity ...................................................14

3.12 Advocating for Appropriate Services .............................................14

3.13 Referrals ...................................................................................................14

3.14 Facilitating Continuity of Services ....................................................14

3.15 Appropriately Discontinuing Services ............................................14

3.16 Appropriately Transitioning Services ..............................................14

Section 4—Responsibility to Supervisees and Trainees .............................15

4.01 Compliance with Supervision Requirements ...............................15

4.02 Supervisory Competence .................................................................15

4.03 Supervisory Volume ...........................................................................15

4.04 Accountability in Supervision ...........................................................15

4.05 Maintaining Supervision Documentation .....................................15

4.06 Providing Supervision and Training ...............................................15

4.07 Incorporating and Addressing Diversity .......................................15

4.08 Performance Monitoring and Feedback ......................................15

4.09 Delegation of Tasks ............................................................................15

4.10 Evaluating Eects of Supervision and Training ...........................16

4.11 Facilitating Continuity of Supervision ...............................................16

4.12 Appropriately Terminating Supervision ..........................................16

Section 5—Responsibility in Public Statements .............................................16

5.01 Protecting the Rights of Clients, Stakeholders,

Supervisees, and Trainees ....................................................................16

5.02 Conﬁdentiality in Public Statements ..............................................16

5.03 Public Statements by Behavior Analysts......................................16

5.04 Public Statements by Others ...........................................................16

5.05 Use of Intellectual Property ..............................................................16

5.06 Advertising Nonbehavioral Services ............................................16

5.07 Soliciting Testimonials from Current Clients

for Advertising ...........................................................................................17

5.08 Using Testimonials from Former Clients for Advertising ........17

5.09 Using Testimonials for Nonadvertising Purposes ..................... 17

5.10 Social Media Channels and Websites ............................................17

5.11 Using Digital Content in Public Statements ................................... 17

Section 6—Responsibility in Research ..............................................................17

6.01 Conforming with Laws and Regulations in Research ................17

6.02 Research Review ................................................................................. 17

6.03 Research in Service Delivery ...........................................................17

6.04 Informed Consent in Research .......................................................18

6.05 Conﬁdentiality in Research...............................................................18

6.06 Competence in Conducting Research .........................................18

6.07 Conﬂict of Interest in Research and Publication ........................18

6.08 Appropriate Credit ..............................................................................18

6.09 Plagiarism ...............................................................................................18

6.10 Documentation and Data Retention in Research .......................18

6.11 Accuracy and Use of Data ..................................................................18

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 3

Introduction

As a diverse group of professionals who work in a variety of practice areas, behavior analysts deliver applied behavior

analysis (ABA) services to positively impact lives. The Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board® (BACB®) exists to meet the

credentialing needs of these professionals and relevant stakeholders (e.g., licensure boards, funders) while protecting ABA

consumers by establishing, disseminating, and managing professional standards. The BACB facilitates ethical behavior in the

profession through its certiﬁcation eligibility and maintenance requirements, by issuing the ethics standards described in this

document, and by operating a system for addressing professional misconduct.

The Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts (Code) guides the professional activities of behavior analysts over whom the BACB

has jurisdiction (see Scope of the Code below). The Code also provides a means for behavior analysts to evaluate their own

behavior and for others to assess whether a behavior analyst has violated their ethical obligations. An introduction section

describes the scope and application of the Code, its core principles, and considerations for ethical decision making. The core

principles are foundational concepts that should guide all aspects of a behavior analyst’s work. The introduction is followed

by a glossary that includes deﬁnitions of technical terms used in the Code. The ﬁnal section includes the ethics standards,

which are informed by the core principles. The standards are organized into six sections: 1) Responsibility as a Professional,

2) Responsibility in Practice, 3) Responsibility to Clients and Stakeholders, 4) Responsibility to Supervisees and Trainees, 5)

Responsibility in Public Statements, and 6) Responsibility in Research.

Scope of the Code

The Code applies to all individuals who hold Board Certiﬁed Behavior Analyst® (BCBA®) or Board Certiﬁed Assistant Behavior

Analyst® (BCaBA®) certiﬁcation and all individuals who have completed an application for BCBA or BCaBA certiﬁcation. For the

sake of eciency, the term “behavior analyst” is used throughout this document to refer to those who must act in accordance

with the Code. The BACB does not have separate jurisdiction over organizations or corporations.

The Code applies to behavior analysts in all of their professional activities, including direct service delivery, consultation,

supervision, training, management, editorial and peer-review activities, research, and any other activity within the ABA

profession. The Code applies to behavior analysts’ professional activities across settings and delivery modes (e.g., in person;

in writing; via phone, email, text message, video conferencing). Application of the Code does not extend to behavior analysts’

personal behavior unless it is determined that the behavior clearly poses a potential risk to the health and safety of clients,

stakeholders, supervisees, or trainees.

Speciﬁc terms are deﬁned in the Glossary section; however, two deﬁnitions are provided here because they are

frequently used in the Core Principles section.

Client: The direct recipient of the behavior analyst’s services. At various times during service provision, one or

more stakeholders may simultaneously meet the deﬁnition of client (e.g., the point at which they receive direct

training or consultation). In some contexts, the client might be a group of individuals (e.g., with organizational

behavior management services).

Stakeholder: An individual, other than the client, who is impacted by and invested in the behavior analyst’s

services (e.g., parent, caregiver, relative, legally authorized representative, collaborator, employer, agency or

institutional representative, licensure board, funder, third-party contractor for services).

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Core Principles

Four foundational principles, which all behavior analysts should strive to embody, serve as the framework for the ethics

standards. Behavior analysts should use these principles to interpret and apply the standards in the Code. The four core

principles are that behavior analysts should: beneﬁt others; treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect; behave with

integrity; and ensure their own competence.

1. Beneﬁt Others. Behavior analysts work to maximize

beneﬁts and do no harm by:

• Protecting the welfare and rights

of clients above all others

• Protecting the welfare and rights of

other individuals with whom they

interact in a professional capacity

• Focusing on the short- and long-term

eects of their professional activities

• Actively identifying and addressing the potential

negative impacts of their own physical and

mental health on their professional activities

• Actively identifying potential and actual conﬂicts

of interest and working to resolve them in

a manner that avoids or minimizes harm

• Actively identifying and addressing factors

(e.g., personal, ﬁnancial, institutional, political,

religious, cultural) that might lead to conﬂicts

of interest, misuse of their position, or negative

impacts on their professional activities

• Eectively and respectfully collaborating

with others in the best interest of those

with whom they work and always

placing clients’ interests ﬁrst

2. Treat Others with Compassion, Dignity, and

Respect. Behavior analysts behave toward others

with compassion, dignity, and respect by:

• Treating others equitably, regardless of factors

such as age, disability, ethnicity, gender

expression/identity, immigration status, marital/

relationship status, national origin, race,

religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic

status, or any other basis proscribed by law

• Respecting others’ privacy and conﬁdentiality

• Respecting and actively promoting

clients’ self-determination to the best of

their abilities, particularly when providing

services to vulnerable populations

• Acknowledging that personal choice in service

delivery is important by providing clients

and stakeholders with needed information

to make informed choices about services

3. Behave with Integrity. Behavior analysts fulﬁll

responsibilities to their scientiﬁc and professional

communities, to society in general, and to the

communities they serve by:

• Behaving in an honest and trustworthy manner

• Not misrepresenting themselves,

misrepresenting their work or others’

work, or engaging in fraud

• Following through on obligations

• Holding themselves accountable for their work

and the work of their supervisees and trainees,

and correcting errors in a timely manner

• Being knowledgeable about and upholding

BACB and other regulatory requirements

• Actively working to create professional

environments that uphold the core

principles and standards of the Code

• Respectfully educating others about

the ethics requirements of behavior

analysts and the mechanisms for

addressing professional misconduct

4. Ensure their Competence. Behavior analysts ensure

their competence by:

• Remaining within the profession’s

scope of practice

• Remaining current and increasing

their knowledge of best practices and

advances in ABA and participating in

professional development activities

• Remaining knowledgeable and current about

interventions (including pseudoscience)

that may exist in their practice areas

and pose a risk of harm to clients

• Being aware of, working within, and continually

evaluating the boundaries of their competence

• Working to continually increase their knowledge

and skills related to cultural responsiveness

and service delivery to diverse groups

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Application of the Code

Behavior analysts are expected to be knowledgeable about and comply with the Code and Code-Enforcement Procedures.

Lack of awareness or misunderstanding of an ethics standard is not a defense against an alleged ethics violation. When

appropriate, behavior analysts should inform others about the Code and Code-Enforcement Procedures and create

conditions that foster adherence to the Code. When addressing potential code violations by themselves or others, behavior

analysts document the steps taken and the resulting outcomes. Behavior analysts should address concerns about the

professional misconduct of others directly with them when, after assessing the situation, it seems possible that doing so will

resolve the issue and not place the behavior analyst or others at undue risk.

The BACB recognizes that behavior analysts may have dierent professional roles. As such, behavior analysts are

required to comply with all applicable laws, licensure requirements, codes of conduct/ethics, reporting requirements (e.g.,

mandated reporting, reporting to funding sources or licensure board, self-reporting to the BACB, reporting instances of

misrepresentation by others), and professional practice requirements related to their various roles. In some instances,

behavior analysts may need to report serious concerns to relevant authorities or agencies that can provide more immediate

relief or protection before reporting to the BACB (e.g., criminal activity or behavior that places clients or others at risk for

direct and immediate harm should immediately be reported to the relevant authorities before reporting to the BACB or a

licensureboard).

The standards included in the Code are not meant to be exhaustive, as it is impossible to predict every situation that might

constitute an ethics violation. Therefore, the absence of a particular behavior or type of conduct from the Code standards

does not indicate that such behavior or conduct is ethical or unethical. When interpreting and applying a standard, it is critical

to attend to its speciﬁc wording and function, as well as the core principles. Additionally, standards must be applied to a

situation using a functional, contextualized approach that accounts for factors relevant to that situation, such as variables

related to diversity (e.g., age, disability, ethnicity, gender expression/identity, immigration status, marital/relationship status,

national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status) and possible imbalances in power. In all instances

of interpreting and applying the Code, behavior analysts should put compliance with the law and clients’ interests ﬁrst by

actively working to maximize desired outcomes and minimize risk.

Ethical decision making. Behavior analysts will likely encounter complex and multifaceted ethical dilemmas. When faced with

such a dilemma, behavior analysts should identify problems and solutions with care and deliberation. In resolving an ethical

dilemma, behavior analysts should follow the spirit and letter of the Code’s core principles and speciﬁc standards. Behavior

analysts should address ethical dilemmas through a structured decision-making process that considers the full context of the

situation and the function of relevant ethics standards. Although no single ethical decision-making process will be equally

eective in all situations, the process below illustrates a systematic approach behavior analysts can take to document and

address potential ethical concerns.

1. Clearly deﬁne the issue and consider potential risk of harm to relevant individuals.

2. Identify all relevant individuals.

3. Gather relevant supporting documentation and follow-up on second-hand information to conﬁrm that there is an

actual ethical concern.

4. Consider your personal learning history and biases in the context of the relevant individuals.

5. Identify the relevant core principles and Code standards.

6. Consult available resources (e.g., research, decision-making models, trusted colleagues).

7. Develop several possible actions to reduce or remove risk of harm, prioritizing the best interests of clients in

accordance with the Code and applicable laws.

Throughout all of the following steps, document information that may be essential to decision making or for

communicating the steps taken and outcomes (e.g., to the BACB, licensure boards, or other governing agencies).

For example, consider documenting: dates, times, locations, and relevant individuals; summaries of observations,

meetings, or information reported by others. Take care to protect conﬁdentiality in the preparation and storage of all

documentation.

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 6

8. Critically evaluate each possible action by considering its alignment with the “letter and spirit” of the Code, its

potential impact on the client and stakeholders, the likelihood of it immediately resolving the ethical concern, as well

as variables such as client preference, social acceptability, degree of restrictiveness, and likelihood of maintenance.

9. Select the action that seems most likely to resolve the speciﬁc ethical concern and reduce the likelihood of similar

issues arising in the future.

10. Take the selected action in collaboration with relevant individuals aected by the issue and document speciﬁc

actions taken, agreed-upon next steps, names of relevant individuals, and due dates.

11. Evaluate the outcomes to ensure that the action successfully addressed the issue.

Enforcement of the Code

The BACB enforces the Code to protect clients and stakeholders, BCBA and BCaBA certiﬁcants and applicants, and the ABA

profession. Complaints are received and processed according to the processes outlined in the BACB’s Code-Enforcement

Procedures document.

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 7

Glossary

Assent

Vocal or nonvocal verbal behavior that can be taken to

indicate willingness to participate in research or behavioral

services by individuals who cannot provide informed consent

(e.g., because of age or intellectual impairments). Assent may

be required by a research review committee or a service

organization. In such instances, those entities will provide

parameters for assessing assent.

Behavior Analyst

An individual who holds BCBA or BCaBA certiﬁcation or

who has submitted a complete application for BCBA or

BCaBAcertiﬁcation.

Behavior-Change Intervention

The full set of behavioral procedures designed to improve

the client’s wellbeing.

Behavioral Services

Services that are explicitly based on the principles and

procedures of behavior analysis and are designed to change

behavior in meaningful ways. These services include, but are

not limited to, assessment, behavior-change interventions,

training, consultation, managing and supervising others, and

delivering continuing education.

Client

The direct recipient of the behavior analyst’s services.

At various times during service provision, one or more

stakeholders may simultaneously meet the deﬁnition of

client (e.g., the point at which they receive direct training

or consultation). In some contexts, the client might be a

group of individuals (e.g., with organizational behavior

managementservices).

Clients’ Rights

Human rights, legal rights, rights codiﬁed within behavior

analysis, and organization rules designed to beneﬁt

theclient.

Conﬂict of Interest

An incompatibility between a behavior analysts’ private

and professional interests resulting in risk or potential risk

to services provided to, or the professional relationship

with, a client, stakeholder, supervisee, trainee, or research

participant. Conﬂicts may result in a situation in which

personal, ﬁnancial, or professional considerations have the

potential to inﬂuence or compromise professional judgment

in the delivery of behavioral services, research, consultation,

supervision, training, or any other professional activity.

Digital Content

Information that is made available for online consumption,

downloading, or distribution through an electronic medium

(e.g., television, radio, ebook, website, social media,

videogame, application, computer, smart device). Common

digital content includes documents, pictures, videos, and

audio ﬁles.

Informed Consent

The permission given by an individual with the legal right

to consent before participating in services or research, or

allowing their information to be used or shared.

Service/Research: Providing the opportunity for an

individual to give informed consent for services or

research involves communicating about and taking

appropriate steps to conﬁrm understanding of: 1) the

purpose of the services or research; 2) the expected

time commitment and procedures involved; 3) the

right to decline to participate or withdraw at any time

without adverse consequences; 4) potential beneﬁts,

risks, discomfort, or adverse eects; 5) any limits to

conﬁdentiality or privacy; 6) any incentives for research

participation; 7) whom to contact for questions or

concerns at any time; and 8) the opportunity to ask

questions and receive answers.

Information Use/Sharing: Providing the opportunity

for an individual to give informed consent to share or

use their information involves communicating about: 1)

the purpose and intended use; 2) the audience; 3) the

expected duration; 4) the right to decline or withdraw

consent at any time; 5) potential risks or beneﬁts; 6)

any limitations to conﬁdentiality or privacy; 7) whom to

contact for questions or concerns at any time; and 8) the

opportunity to ask questions and receive answers.

Legally Authorized Representative

Any individual authorized under law to provide consent

on behalf of an individual who cannot provide consent to

receive services or participate in research.

Multiple Relationship

A comingling of two or more of a behavior analyst’s roles

(e.g., behavioral and personal) with a client, stakeholder,

supervisee, trainee, research participant, or someone closely

associated with or related to the client.

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 8

Public Statements

Delivery of information (digital or otherwise) in a public

forum for the purpose of either better informing that

audience or providing a call-to-action. This includes paid or

unpaid advertising, brochures, printed material, directory

listings, personal resumes or curriculum vitae, interviews, or

comments for use in media (e.g., print, statements in legal

proceedings, lectures and public presentations, social media,

published materials).

Research

Any data-based activity, including analysis of preexisting

data, designed to generate generalizable knowledge for the

discipline. The use of an experimental design does not by

itself constitute research.

Research Participant

Any individual participating in a deﬁned research study for

whom informed consent has been obtained.

Research Review Committee

A group of professionals whose stated purpose is to review

research proposals to ensure the ethical treatment of human

research participants. This committee might be an ocial

entity of a government or university (e.g., Institutional Review

Board, Research Ethics Board), an independent committee

within a service organization, or an independent organization

created for this purpose.

Scope of Competence

The professional activities a behavior analyst can consistently

perform with proﬁciency.

Social Media Channel

A digital platform, either found through a web browser or

through an application, where users (individuals and/or

businesses) can consume, create, copy, download, share,

or comment on posts or advertisements. Both posts and

advertisements would be considered digital content.

Stakeholder

An individual, other than the client, who is impacted by and

invested in the behavior analyst’s services (e.g., parent,

caregiver, relative, legally authorized representative,

collaborator, employer, agency or institutional

representatives, licensure board, funder, third-party

contractor for services).

Supervisee

Any individual whose behavioral service delivery is overseen

by a behavior analyst within the context of a deﬁned, agreed-

upon relationship. Supervisees may include RBTs, BCaBAs,

and BCBAs, as well as other professionals carrying out

supervised behavioral services.

Testimonial

Any solicited or unsolicited recommendation, in any form,

from a client, stakeholder, supervisee, or trainee arming

the beneﬁts received from a behavior analyst’s product or

service. From the point at which a behavior analyst asks an

individual for a recommendation it is considered solicited.

Third Party

Any individual, group of individuals, or entity, other than

the direct recipient of services, the primary caregiver, the

legally authorized representative, or the behavior analyst,

who requests and funds services on behalf of a client or

group of clients. Some examples include a school district,

governmental entity, mental health agency, among others.

Trainee

Any individual accruing ﬁeldwork/experience toward fulﬁlling

eligibility requirements for BCaBA or BCBA certiﬁcation.

Website

A digital platform found through a web browser where

an entity (individual and/or organization) produces and

distributes digital content for the consumption of users

online. Depending on the functionality, users can consume,

create, copy, download, share, or comment on the provided

digital content.

Note: Terms deﬁned in the glossary are italicized the ﬁrst

time they appear in a standard in each section of the Code.

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 9

Ethics Standards

Section 1—Responsibility as a Professional

1.01 Being Truthful

Behavior analysts are truthful and arrange the professional environment to promote truthful behavior in others. They do

not create professional situations that result in others engaging in behavior that is fraudulent or illegal or that violates the

Code. They also provide truthful and accurate information to all required entities (e.g., BACB, licensure boards, funders)

and individuals (e.g., clients, stakeholders, supervisees, trainees), and they correct instances of untruthful or inaccurate

submissions as soon as they become aware of them.

1.02 Conforming with Legal and Professional Requirements

Behavior analysts follow the law and the requirements of their professional community (e.g., BACB, licensure board).

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.

1.04 Practicing within a Deﬁned Role

Behavior analysts provide services only after deﬁning and documenting their professional role with relevant parties in writing.

1.05 Practicing within Scope of Competence

Behavior analysts practice only within their identiﬁed scope of competence. They engage in professional activities in

new areas (e.g., populations, procedures) only after accessing and documenting appropriate study, training, supervised

experience, consultation, and/or co-treatment from professionals competent in the new area. Otherwise, they refer or

transition services to an appropriate professional.

1.06 Maintaining Competence

Behavior analysts actively engage in professional development activities to maintain and further their professional

competence. Professional development activities include reading relevant literature; attending conferences and conventions;

participating in workshops and other training opportunities; obtaining additional coursework; receiving coaching, consultation,

supervision, or mentorship; and obtaining and maintaining appropriate professional credentials.

1.07 Cultural Responsiveness and Diversity

Behavior analysts actively engage in professional development activities to acquire knowledge and skills related to cultural

responsiveness and diversity. They evaluate their own biases and ability to address the needs of individuals with diverse needs/

backgrounds (e.g., age, disability, ethnicity, gender expression/identity, immigration status, marital/relationship status, national

origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status). Behavior analysts also evaluate biases of their supervisees and

trainees,as well as theirsupervisees’ and trainees’ability to address the needs of individuals with diverse needs/backgrounds.

1.08 Nondiscrimination

Behavior analysts do not discriminate against others. They behave toward others in an equitable and inclusive manner

regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender expression/identity, immigration status, marital/relationship status, national

origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or any other basis proscribed by law.

1.09 Nonharassment

Behavior analysts do not engage in behavior that is harassing or hostile toward others.

1.10 Awareness of Personal Biases and Challenges

Behavior analysts maintain awareness that their personal biases or challenges (e.g., mental or physical health conditions;

legal, ﬁnancial, marital/relationship challenges) may interfere with the eectiveness of their professional work. Behavior

analysts take appropriate steps to resolve interference, ensure that their professional work is not compromised, and

document all actions taken in this circumstance and the eventual outcomes.

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 10

1.11 Multiple Relationships

Because multiple relationships may result in a conﬂict of interest that might harm one or more parties, behavior analysts

avoid entering into or creating multiple relationships, including professional, personal, and familial relationships with clients

and colleagues. Behavior analysts communicate the risks of multiple relationships to relevant individuals and continually

monitor for the development of multiple relationships. If multiple relationships arise, behavior analysts take appropriate steps

to resolve them. When immediately resolving a multiple relationship is not possible, behavior analysts develop appropriate

safeguards to identify and avoid conﬂicts of interest in compliance with the Code and develop a plan to eventually resolve

the multiple relationship. Behavior analysts document all actions taken in this circumstance and the eventual outcomes.

1.12 Giving and Receiving Gifts

Because the exchange of gifts can invite conﬂicts of interest and multiple relationships, behavior analysts do not give gifts to

or accept gifts from clients, stakeholders, supervisees, or trainees with a monetary value of more than $10 US dollars (or the

equivalent purchasing power in another currency). Behavior analysts make clients and stakeholders aware of this requirement

at the onset of the professional relationship. A gift is acceptable if it functions as an infrequent expression of gratitude and

does not result in ﬁnancial beneﬁt to the recipient. Instances of giving or accepting ongoing or cumulative gifts may rise to the

level of a violation of this standard if the gifts become a regularly expected source of income or value to the recipient.

1.13 Coercive and Exploitative Relationships

Behavior analysts do not abuse their power or authority by coercing or exploiting persons over whom they have authority

(e.g., evaluative, supervisory).

1.14 Romantic and Sexual Relationships

Behavior analysts do not engage in romantic or sexual relationships with current clients, stakeholders, trainees, or

supervisees because such relationships pose a substantial risk of conﬂicts of interest and impaired judgment. Behavior

analysts do not engage in romantic or sexual relationships with former clients or stakeholders for a minimum of two years

from the date the professional relationship ended. Behavior analysts do not engage in romantic or sexual relationships with

former supervisees or trainees until the parties can document that the professional relationship has ended (i.e., completion

of all professional duties). Behavior analysts do not accept as supervisees or trainees individuals with whom they have had a

past romantic or sexual relationship until at least six months after the relationship has ended.

1.15 Responding to Requests

Behavior analysts make appropriate eorts to respond to requests for information from and comply with deadlines of relevant

individuals (e.g., clients, stakeholders, supervisees, trainees) and entities (e.g., BACB, licensure boards, funders). They also

comply with practice requirements (e.g., attestations, criminal background checks) imposed by the BACB, employers, or

governmental entities.

1.16 Self-Reporting Critical Information

Behavior analysts remain knowledgeable about and comply with all self-reporting requirements of relevant entities (e.g.,

BACB, licensure boards, funders).

Section 2—Responsibility in Practice

2.01 Providing Eective Treatment

Behavior analysts prioritize clients’ rights and needs in service delivery. They provide services that are conceptually consistent

with behavioral principles, based on scientiﬁc evidence, and designed to maximize desired outcomes for and protect all clients,

stakeholders, supervisees, trainees, and research participants from harm. Behavior analysts implement nonbehavioral services

with clients only if they have the required education, formal training, and professional credentials to deliver such services.

2.02 Timeliness

Behavior analysts deliver services and carry out necessary service-related administrative responsibilities in a timely manner.

2.03 Protecting Conﬁdential Information

Behavior analysts take appropriate steps to protect the conﬁdentiality of clients, stakeholders, supervisees, trainees, and

research participants; prevent the accidental or inadvertent sharing of conﬁdential information; and comply with applicable

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 11

conﬁdentiality requirements (e.g., laws, regulations, organization policies). The scope of conﬁdentiality includes service

delivery (e.g., live, teleservices, recorded sessions); documentation and data; and verbal, written, or electronic communication.

2.04 Disclosing Conﬁdential Information

Behavior analysts only share conﬁdential information about clients, stakeholders, supervisees, trainees, or research

participants: (1) when informed consent is obtained; (2) when attempting to protect the client or others from harm; (3) when

attempting to resolve contractual issues; (4) when attempting to prevent a crime that is reasonably likely to cause physical,

mental, or ﬁnancial harm to another; or (5) when compelled to do so by law or court order. When behavior analysts are

authorized to discuss conﬁdential information with a third party, they only share information critical to the purpose of

thecommunication.

2.05 Documentation Protection and Retention

Behavior analysts are knowledgeable about and comply with all applicable requirements (e.g., BACB rules, laws, regulations,

contracts, funder and organization requirements) for storing, transporting, retaining, and destroying physical and electronic

documentation related to their professional activities. They destroy physical documentation after making electronic copies or

summaries of data (e.g., reports and graphs) only when allowed by applicable requirements. When a behavior analyst leaves

an organization these responsibilities remain with the organization.

2.06 Accuracy in Service Billing and Reporting

Behavior analysts identify their services accurately and include all required information on reports, bills, invoices, requests

for reimbursement, and receipts. They do not implement or bill nonbehavioral services under an authorization or contract for

behavioral services. If inaccuracies in reporting or billing are discovered, they inform all relevant parties (e.g., organizations,

licensure boards, funders), correct the inaccuracy in a timely manner, and document all actions taken in this circumstance and

the eventual outcomes.

2.07 Fees

Behavior analysts implement fee practices and share fee information in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

They do not misrepresent their fees. In situations where behavior analysts are not directly responsible for fees, they must

communicate these requirements to the responsible party and take steps to resolve any inaccuracy or conﬂict. They

document all actions taken in this circumstance and the eventual outcomes.

2.08 Communicating About Services

Behavior analysts use understandable language in, and ensure comprehension of, all communications with clients,

stakeholders, supervisees, trainees, and research participants. Before providing services, they clearly describe the scope

of services and specify the conditions under which services will end. They explain all assessment and behavior-change

intervention procedures before implementing them and explain assessment and intervention results when they are available.

They provide an accurate and current set of their credentials and a description of their area of competence upon request.

2.09 Involving Clients and Stakeholders

Behavior analysts make appropriate eorts to involve clients and relevant stakeholders throughout the service relationship,

including selecting goals, selecting and designing assessments and behavior-change interventions, and conducting continual

progress monitoring.

2.10 Collaborating with Colleagues

Behavior analysts collaborate with colleagues from their own and other professions in the best interest of clients and

stakeholders. Behavior analysts address conﬂicts by compromising when possible and always prioritizing the best interest of

the client. Behavior analysts document all actions taken in these circumstances and their eventual outcomes.

2.11 Obtaining Informed Consent

Behavior analysts are responsible for knowing about and complying with all conditions under which they are required

to obtain informed consent from clients, stakeholders, and research participants (e.g., before initial implementation of

assessments or behavior-change interventions, when making substantial changes to interventions, when exchanging or

releasing conﬁdential information or records). They are responsible for explaining, obtaining, reobtaining, and documenting

required informed consent. They are responsible for obtaining assent from clients when applicable.

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2.12 Considering Medical Needs

Behavior analysts ensure, to the best of their ability, that medical needs are assessed and addressed if there is any

reasonable likelihood that a referred behavior is inﬂuenced by medical or biological variables. They document referrals made

to a medical professional and follow up with the client after making the referral.

2.13 Selecting, Designing, and Implementing Assessments

Before selecting or designing behavior-change interventions behavior analysts select and design assessments that are

conceptually consistent with behavioral principles; that are based on scientiﬁc evidence; and that best meet the diverse

needs, context, and resources of the client and stakeholders. They select, design, and implement assessments with a focus

on maximizing beneﬁts and minimizing risk of harm to the client and stakeholders. They summarize the procedures and

results in writing.

2.14 Selecting, Designing, and Implementing Behavior-Change Interventions

Behavior analysts select, design, and implement behavior-change interventions that: (1) are conceptually consistent with

behavioral principles; (2) are based on scientiﬁc evidence; (3) are based on assessment results; (4) prioritize positive

reinforcement procedures; and (5) best meet the diverse needs, context, and resources of the client and stakeholders.

Behavior analysts also consider relevant factors (e.g., risks, beneﬁts, and side eects; client and stakeholder preference;

implementation eciency; cost eectiveness) and design and implement behavior-change interventions to produce

outcomes likely to maintain under naturalistic conditions. They summarize the behavior-change intervention procedures in

writing (e.g., a behavior plan).

2.15 Minimizing Risk of Behavior-Change Interventions

Behavior analysts select, design, and implement behavior-change interventions (including the selection and use of

consequences) with a focus on minimizing risk of harm to the client and stakeholders. They recommend and implement

restrictive or punishment-based procedures only after demonstrating that desired results have not been obtained using less

intrusive means, or when it is determined by an existing intervention team that the risk of harm to the client outweighs the risk

associated with the behavior-change intervention. When recommending and implementing restrictive or punishment-based

procedures, behavior analysts comply with any required review processes (e.g., a human rights review committee). Behavior

analysts must continually evaluate and document the eectiveness of restrictive or punishment-based procedures and modify

or discontinue the behavior-change intervention in a timely manner if it is ineective.

2.16 Describing Behavior-Change Interventions Before Implementation

Before implementation, behavior analysts describe in writing the objectives and procedures of the behavior-change

intervention, any projected timelines, and the schedule of ongoing review. They provide this information and explain the

environmental conditions necessary for eective implementation of the behavior-change intervention to the stakeholders

and client (when appropriate). They also provide explanations when modifying existing or introducing new behavior-change

interventions and obtain informed consent when appropriate.

2.17 Collecting and Using Data

Behavior analysts actively ensure the appropriate selection and correct implementation of data collection procedures. They

graphically display, summarize, and use the data to make decisions about continuing, modifying, or terminating services.

2.18 Continual Evaluation of the Behavior-Change Intervention

Behavior analysts engage in continual monitoring and evaluation of behavior-change interventions. If data indicate that

desired outcomes are not being realized, they actively assess the situation and take appropriate corrective action. When

a behavior analyst is concerned that services concurrently delivered by another professional are negatively impacting

the behavior-change intervention, the behavior analyst takes appropriate steps to review and address the issue with the

otherprofessional.

2.19 Addressing Conditions Interfering with Service Delivery

Behavior analysts actively identify and address environmental conditions (e.g., the behavior of others, hazards to the client or

sta, disruptions) that may interfere with or prevent service delivery. In such situations, behavior analysts remove or minimize

the conditions, identify eective modiﬁcations to the intervention, and/or consider obtaining or recommending assistance

from other professionals. Behavior analysts document the conditions, all actions taken, and the eventual outcomes.

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Section 3—Responsibility to Clients and Stakeholders

3.01 Responsibility to Clients (see 1.03, 2.01)

Behavior analysts act in the best interest of clients, taking appropriate steps to support clients’ rights, maximize beneﬁts,

and do no harm. They are also knowledgeable about and comply with applicable laws and regulations related to mandated

reporting requirements.

3.02 Identifying Stakeholders

Behavior analysts identify stakeholders when providing services. When multiple stakeholders (e.g., parent or legally

authorized representative, teacher, principal) are involved, the behavior analyst identiﬁes their relative obligations

to each stakeholder. They document and communicate those obligations to stakeholders at the outset of the

professionalrelationship.

3.03 Accepting Clients (see 1.05, 1.06)

Behavior analysts only accept clients whose requested services are within their identiﬁed scope of competence and

available resources (e.g., time and capacity for case supervision, stang). When behavior analysts are directed to accept

clients outside of their identiﬁed scope of competence and available resources, they take appropriate steps to discuss

and resolve the concern with relevant parties. Behavior analysts document all actions taken in this circumstance and the

eventualoutcomes.

3.04 Service Agreement (see 1.04)

Before implementing services, behavior analysts ensure that there is a signed service agreement with the client and/

or relevant stakeholders outlining the responsibilities of all parties, the scope of behavioral services to be provided,

the behavior analyst’s obligations under the Code, and procedures for submitting complaints about a behavior analyst’s

professional practices to relevant entities (e.g., BACB, service organization, licensure board, funder). They update service

agreements as needed or as required by relevant parties (e.g., service organizations, licensure boards, funders). Updated

service agreements must be reviewed with and signed by the client and/or relevant stakeholders.

3.05 Financial Agreements (see 1.04, 2.07)

Before beginning services, behavior analysts document agreed-upon compensation and billing practices with their clients,

relevant stakeholders, and/or funders. When funding circumstances change, they must be revisited with these parties. Pro

bono and bartered services are only provided under a speciﬁc service agreement and in compliance with the Code.

3.06 Consulting with Other Providers (see 1.05, 2.04, 2.10, 2.11, 2.12)

Behavior analysts arrange for appropriate consultation with and referrals to other providers in the best interests of their

clients, with appropriate informed consent, and in compliance with applicable requirements (e.g., laws, regulations, contracts,

organization and funder policies).

3.07 Third-Party Contracts for Services (see 1.04, 1.11, 2.04, 2.07)

When behavior analysts enter into a signed contract to provide services to a client at the request of a third party (e.g., school

district, governmental entity), they clarify the nature of the relationship with each party and assess any potential conﬂicts

before services begin. They ensure that the contract outlines (1) the responsibilities of all parties, (2) the scope of behavioral

services to be provided, (3) the likely use of the information obtained, (4) the behavior analysts’ obligations under the Code,

and (5) any limits about maintaining conﬁdentiality. Behavior analysts are responsible for amending contracts as needed and

reviewing them with the relevant parties at that time.

3.08 Responsibility to the Client with Third-Party Contracts for Services (see 1.05, 1.11, 2.01)

Behavior analysts place the client’s care and welfare above all others. If the third party requests services from the behavior

analyst that are incompatible with the behavior analyst’s recommendations, that are outside of the behavior analyst’s scope of

competence, or that could result in a multiple relationship, behavior analysts resolve such conﬂicts in the best interest of the

client. If a conﬂict cannot be resolved, the behavior analyst may obtain additional training or consultation, discontinue services

following appropriate transition measures, or refer the client to another behavior analyst. Behavior analysts document all

actions taken in this circumstance and the eventual outcomes.

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3.09 Communicating with Stakeholders About Third-Party Contracted Services (2.04, 2.08, 2.09, 2.11)

When providing services at the request of a third party to a minor or individual who does not have the legal right to make

personal decisions, behavior analysts ensure that the parent or legally authorized representative is informed of the rationale

for and scope of services to be provided, as well as their right to receive copies of all service documentation and data.

Behavior analysts are knowledgeable about and comply with all requirements related to informed consent, regardless of who

requested the services.

3.10 Limitations of Conﬁdentiality (see 1.02, 2.03, 2.04)

Behavior analysts inform clients and stakeholders of the limitations of conﬁdentiality at the outset of the professional

relationship and when information disclosures are required.

3.11 Documenting Professional Activity (see 1.04, 2.03, 2.05, 2.06, 2.10)

Throughout the service relationship, behavior analysts create and maintain detailed and high-quality documentation of their

professional activities to facilitate provision of services by them or by other professionals, to ensure accountability, and to

meet applicable requirements (e.g., laws, regulations, funder and organization policies). Documentation must be created and

maintained in a manner that allows for timely communication and transition of services, should the need arise.

3.12 Advocating for Appropriate Services (1.04, 1.05, 2.01, 2.08)

Behavior analysts advocate for and educate clients and stakeholders about evidence-based assessment and behavior-

change intervention procedures. They also advocate for the appropriate amount and level of behavioral service provision

and oversight required to meet deﬁned client goals.

3.13 Referrals (see 1.05, 1.11, 2.01, 2.04, 2.10)

Behavior analysts make referrals based on the needs of the client and/or relevant stakeholders and include multiple

providers when available. Behavior analysts disclose to the client and relevant stakeholders any relationships they have

with potential providers and any fees or incentives they may receive for the referrals. They document any referrals made,

including relevant relationships and fees or incentives received, and make appropriate eorts to follow up with the client and/

or relevant stakeholders.

3.14 Facilitating Continuity of Services (see 1.03, 2.02, 2.05, 2,08, 2.10)

Behavior analysts act in the best interests of the client to avoid interruption or disruption of services. They make appropriate

and timely eorts to facilitate the continuation of behavioral services in the event of planned interruptions (e.g., relocation,

temporary leave of absence) and unplanned interruptions (e.g., illness, funding disruption, parent request, emergencies).

They ensure that service agreements or contracts includea general plan of action for serviceinterruptions. When a service

interruption occurs, they communicate to all relevant parties the steps being taken to facilitate continuity of services. Behavior

analysts document all actions taken in this circumstance and the eventual outcomes.

3.15 Appropriately Discontinuing Services (see 1.03, 2.02, 2.05. 2.10, 2.19)

Behavior analysts include the circumstances for discontinuing services in their service agreement. They consider

discontinuing services when: (1) the client has met all behavior-change goals, (2) the client is not beneﬁting from the service,

(3) the behavior analyst and/or their supervisees or trainees are exposed to potentially harmful conditions that cannot be

reasonably resolved, (4) the client and/or relevant stakeholder requests discontinuation, (5) the relevant stakeholders are

not complying with the behavior-change intervention despite appropriate eorts to address barriers, or (6) services are no

longer funded. Behavior analysts provide the client and/or relevant stakeholders with a writtenplan for discontinuing services,

document acknowledgment of the plan, review the plan throughout the discharge process, and document all steps taken.

3.16 Appropriately Transitioning Services (see 1.03, 2.02, 2.05. 2.10)

Behavior analysts include in their service agreement the circumstances for transitioning the client to another behavior analyst

within or outside of their organization. They make appropriate eorts to eectively manage transitions; provide a writtenplan

that includes target dates, transition activities, and responsible parties; and review the plan throughout the transition. When

relevant, they take appropriate steps to minimize disruptions to services during the transition by collaborating with relevant

service providers.

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Section 4—Responsibility to Supervisees and Trainees

4.01 Compliance with Supervision Requirements (see 1.02)

Behavior analysts are knowledgeable about and comply with all applicable supervisory requirements (e.g., BACB rules,

licensure requirements, funder and organization policies), including those related to supervision modalities and structure (e.g.,

in person, video conference, individual, group).

4.02 Supervisory Competence (see 1.05, 1.06)

Behavior analysts supervise and train others only within their identiﬁed scope of competence. They provide supervision

only after obtaining knowledge and skills in eective supervisory practices, and they continually evaluate and improve their

supervisory repertoires through professional development.

4.03 Supervisory Volume (see 1.02, 1.05, 2.01)

Behavior analysts take on only the number of supervisees or trainees that allows them to provide eective supervision and

training. They are knowledgeable about and comply with any relevant requirements (e.g., BACB rules, licensure requirements,

funder and organization policies). They consider relevant factors (e.g., their current client demands, their current supervisee or

trainee caseload, time and logistical resources) on an ongoing basis and when deciding to add a supervisee or trainee. When

behavior analysts determine that they have met their threshold volume for providing eective supervision, they document this

self-assessment and communicate the results to their employer or other relevant parties.

4.04 Accountability in Supervision (see 1.03)

Behavior analysts are accountable for their supervisory practices. They are also accountable for the professional activities

(e.g., client services, supervision, training, research activity, public statements) of their supervisees or trainees that occur as

part of the supervisory relationship.

4.05 Maintaining Supervision Documentation (1.01, 1.02, 1.04, 2.03, 2.05, 3.11)

Behavior analysts create, update, store, and dispose of documentation related to their supervisees or trainees by following all

applicable requirements(e.g., BACB rules, licensure requirements, funder and organization policies), including those relating

to conﬁdentiality. They ensure that their documentation, and the documentation of their supervisees or trainees, is accurate

and complete. They maintain documentation in a manner that allows for the eective transition of supervisory oversight

if necessary. They retain their supervision documentation for at least 7 years and as otherwise required by law and other

relevant parties and instruct their supervisees or trainees to do the same.

4.06 Providing Supervision and Training (see 1.02, 1.13 2.01)

Behavior analysts deliver supervision and training in compliance with applicable requirements (e.g., BACB rules, licensure

requirements, funder and organization policies). They design and implement supervision and training procedures that are

evidence based, focus on positive reinforcement, and are individualized for each supervisee or trainee and theircircumstances.

4.07 Incorporating and Addressing Diversity (see 1.05, 1.06, 1.07, 1.10)

During supervision and training, behavior analysts actively incorporate and address topics related to diversity (e.g., age,

disability, ethnicity, gender expression/identity, immigration status, marital/relationship status, national origin, race, religion,

sexual orientation, socioeconomic status).

4.08 Performance Monitoring and Feedback (see 2.02, 2.05, 2.17, 2.18)

Behavior analysts engage in and document ongoing, evidence-based data collection and performance monitoring (e.g.,

observations, structured evaluations) of supervisees or trainees. They provide timely informal and formal praise and feedback

designed to improve performance and document formal feedback delivered. When performance problems arise, behavior

analysts develop, communicate, implement, and evaluate an improvement plan with clearly identiﬁed procedures for

addressing the problem.

4.09 Delegation of Tasks (see 1.03)

Behavior analysts delegate tasks to their supervisees or trainees only after conﬁrming that they can competently perform the

tasks and that the delegation complies with applicable requirements (e.g., BACB rules, licensure requirements, funder and

organization policies).

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 16

4.10 Evaluating Eects of Supervision and Training (see 1.03, 2.17, 2.18)

Behavior analysts actively engage in continual evaluation of their own supervisory practices using feedback from others and

client and supervisee or trainee outcomes. Behavior analysts document those self-evaluations and make timely adjustments

to their supervisory and training practices as indicated.

4.11 Facilitating Continuity of Supervision (see 1.03, 2.02, 3.14)

Behavior analysts minimize interruption or disruption of supervision and make appropriate and timely eorts to facilitate the

continuation of supervision in the event of planned interruptions (e.g., temporary leave) or unplanned interruptions (e.g.,

illness, emergencies).When an interruption or disruption occurs, they communicate to all relevant parties the steps being

taken to facilitate continuity of supervision.

4.12 Appropriately Terminating Supervision (see 1.03, 2.02, 3.15)

When behavior analysts determine, for any reason, to terminate supervision or other services that include supervision, they

work with all relevant parties to develop a plan for terminating supervision that minimizes negative impacts to the supervisee

or trainee. They document all actions taken in this circumstance and the eventual outcomes.

Section 5—Responsibility in Public Statements

5.01 Protecting the Rights of Clients, Stakeholders, Supervisees, and Trainees (see 1.03, 3.01)

Behavior analysts take appropriate steps to protect the rights of their clients, stakeholders, supervisees, and trainees in all

public statements. Behavior analysts prioritize the rights of their clients in all public statements.

5.02 Conﬁdentiality in Public Statements (see 2.03, 2.04, 3.10)

In all public statements, behavior analysts protect the conﬁdentiality of their clients, supervisees, and trainees, except when

allowed. They make appropriate eorts to prevent accidental or inadvertent sharing of conﬁdential or identifying information.

5.03 Public Statements by Behavior Analysts (see 1.01, 1.02)

When providing public statements about their professional activities, or those of others with whom they are aliated, behavior

analysts take reasonable precautions to ensure that the statements are truthful and do not mislead or exaggerate either

because of what they state, convey, suggest, or omit; and are based on existing research and a behavioral conceptualization.

Behavior analysts do not provide speciﬁc advice related to a client’s needs in public forums.

5.04 Public Statements by Others (see 1.03)

Behavior analysts are responsible for public statements that promote their professional activities or products, regardless

of who creates or publishes the statements. Behavior analysts make reasonable eorts to prevent others (e.g., employers,

marketers, clients, stakeholders) from making deceptive statements concerning their professional activities or products. If

behavior analysts learn of such statements, they make reasonable eorts to correct them. Behavior analysts document all

actions taken in this circumstance and the eventual outcomes.

5.05 Use of Intellectual Property (see 1.01, 1.02, 1.03)

Behavior analysts are knowledgeable about and comply with intellectual property laws, including obtaining permission to

use materials that have been trademarked or copyrighted or can otherwise be claimed as another’s intellectual property as

deﬁned by law. Appropriate use of such materials includes providing citations, attributions, and/or trademark or copyright

symbols. Behavior analysts do not unlawfully obtain or disclose proprietary information, regardless of how it became

knownto them.

5.06 Advertising Nonbehavioral Services (see 1.01, 1.02, 2.01)

Behavior analysts do not advertise nonbehavioral services as behavioral services. If behavior analysts provide nonbehavioral

services, those services must be clearly distinguished from their behavioral services and BACB certiﬁcation with the following

disclaimer: “These interventions are not behavioral in nature and are not covered by my BACB certiﬁcation.” This disclaimer

is placed alongside the names and descriptions of all nonbehavioral interventions. If a behavior analyst is employed by an

organization that violates this Code standard, the behavior analyst makes reasonable eorts to remediate the situation,

documenting all actions taken and the eventual outcomes.

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 17

5.07 Soliciting Testimonials from Current Clients for Advertising (see 1.11, 1.13, 2.11, 3.01, 3.10)

Because of the possibility of undue inﬂuence and implicit coercion, behavior analysts do not solicit testimonials from current

clients or stakeholders for use in advertisements designed to obtain new clients. This does not include unsolicited reviews

on websites where behavior analysts cannot control content, but such content should not be used or shared by the behavior

analyst. If a behavior analyst is employed by an organization that violates this Code standard, the behavior analyst makes

reasonable eorts to remediate the situation, documenting all actions taken and the eventual outcomes.

5.08 Using Testimonials from Former Clients for Advertising (see 2.03, 2.04, 2.11, 3.01, 3.10)

When soliciting testimonials from former clients or stakeholders for use in advertisements designed to obtain new clients,

behavior analysts consider the possibility that former clients may re-enter services. These testimonials must be identiﬁed as

solicited or unsolicited, include an accurate statement of the relationship between the behavior analyst and the testimonial

author, and comply with all applicable privacy and conﬁdentiality laws. When soliciting testimonials from former clients or

stakeholders, behavior analysts provide them with clear and thorough descriptions about where and how the testimonial will

appear, make them aware of any risks associated with the disclosure of their private information, and inform them that they can

rescind the testimonial at any time. If a behavior analyst is employed by an organization that violates this Code standard, the

behavior analyst makes reasonable eorts to remediate the situation, documenting all actions taken and the eventualoutcomes.

5.09 Using Testimonials for Nonadvertising Purposes (see 1.02, 2.03. 2.04, 2.11, 3.01, 3.10)

Behavior analysts may use testimonials from former or current clients and stakeholders for nonadvertising purposes (e.g.,

fundraising, grant applications, dissemination of information about ABA) in accordance with applicable laws. If a behavior

analyst is employed by an organization that violates this Code standard, the behavior analyst makes reasonable eorts to

remediate the situation, documenting all actions taken and the eventual outcomes.

5.10 Social Media Channels and Websites (see 1.02, 2.03, 2.04, 2.11, 3.01, 3.10)

Behavior analysts are knowledgeable about the risks to privacy and conﬁdentiality associated with the use of social media

channels and websites and they use their respective professional and personal accounts accordingly. They do not publish

information and/or digital content of clients on their personal social media accounts and websites. When publishing information

and/or digital content of clients on their professional social media accounts and websites, behavior analysts ensure that

for each publication they (1) obtain informed consent before publishing, (2) include a disclaimer that informed consent was

obtained and that the information should not be captured and reused without express permission, (3) publish on social media

channels in a manner that reduces the potential for sharing, and (4) make appropriate eorts to prevent and correct misuse of

the shared information, documenting all actions taken and the eventual outcomes. Behavior analysts frequently monitor their

social media accounts and websites to ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of sharedinformation.

5.11 Using Digital Content in Public Statements (see 1.02, 1.03, 2.03, 2.04, 2.11, 3.01, 3.10)

Before publicly sharing information about clients using digital content, behavior analysts ensure conﬁdentiality, obtain

informed consent before sharing, and only use the content for the intended purpose and audience. They ensure that

all shared media is accompanied by a disclaimer indicating that informed consent was obtained. If a behavior analyst is

employed by an organization that violates this Code standard, the behavior analyst makes reasonable eorts to remediate

the situation, documenting all actions taken and the eventual outcomes.

Section 6—Responsibility in Research

6.01 Conforming with Laws and Regulations in Research (see 1.02)

Behavior analysts plan and conduct research in a manner consistent with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as

requirements by organizations and institutions governing research activity.

6.02 Research Review (see 1.02, 1.04, 3.01)

Behavior analysts conduct research, whether independent of or in the context of service delivery, only after approval by a

formal research review committee.

6.03 Research in Service Delivery (see 1.02, 1.04, 2.01, 3.01)

Behavior analysts conducting research in the context of service delivery must arrange research activities such that client

services and client welfare are prioritized. In these situations, behavior analysts must comply with all ethics requirements for both

Behavior Analyst Certiﬁcation Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 18

service delivery and research within the Code. When professional services are oered as an incentive for research participation,

behavior analysts clarify the nature of the services, and any potential risks, obligations, and limitations for allparties.

6.04 Informed Consent in Research (see 1.04, 2.08, 2.11)

Behavior analysts are responsible for obtaining informed consent (and assent when relevant) from potential research

participants under the conditions required by the research review committee. When behavior analysts become aware that

data obtained from past or current clients, stakeholders, supervisees, and/or trainees during typical service delivery might be

disseminated to the scientiﬁc community, they obtain informed consent for use of the data before dissemination, specify that

services will not be impacted by providing or withholding consent, and make available the right to withdraw consent at any

time without penalty.

6.05 Conﬁdentiality in Research (see 2.03, 2.04, 2.05)

Behavior analysts prioritize the conﬁdentiality of their research participants except under conditions where it may not be

possible. They make appropriate eorts to prevent accidental or inadvertent sharing of conﬁdential or identifying information

while conducting research and in any dissemination activity related to the research (e.g., disguising or removing conﬁdential

or identifying information).

6.06 Competence in Conducting Research (see 1.04, 1.05, 1.06, 3.01)

Behavior analysts only conduct research independently after they have successfully conducted research under a supervisor

in a deﬁned relationship (e.g., thesis, dissertation, mentored research project). Behavior analysts and their assistants are

permitted to perform only those research activities for which they are appropriately trained and prepared. Before engaging

in research activities for which a behavior analyst has not received training, they seek the appropriate training and become

demonstrably competent or they collaborate with other professionals who have the required competence. Behavior analysts

are responsible for the ethical conduct of all personnel assigned to the research project.

6.07 Conﬂict of Interest in Research and Publication (see 1.01, 1.11, 1.13)

When conducting research, behavior analysts identify, disclose, and address conﬂicts of interest (e.g., personal, ﬁnancial,

organization related, service related). They also identify, disclose, and address conﬂicts of interest in their publication and

editorial activities.

6.08 Appropriate Credit (see 1.01, 1.11, 1.13)

Behavior analysts give appropriate credit (e.g., authorship, author-note acknowledgment) to research contributors in all

dissemination activities. Authorship and other publication acknowledgments accurately reﬂect the relative scientiﬁc or

professional contributions of the individuals involved, regardless of their professional status (e.g., professor, student).

6.09 Plagiarism (see 1.01)

Behavior analysts do not present portions or elements of another’s work or data as their own. Behavior analysts only

republish their previously published data or text when accompanied by proper disclosure.

6.10 Documentation and Data Retention in Research (see 2.03, 2.05, 3.11, 4.05)

Behavior analysts must be knowledgeable about and comply with all applicable standards (e.g., BACB rules, laws, research

review committee requirements) for storing, transporting, retaining, and destroying physical and electronic documentation

related to research. They retain identifying documentation and data for the longest required duration. Behavior analysts

destroy physical documentation after making deidentiﬁed digital copies or summaries of data (e.g., reports and graphs) when

permitted by relevant entities.

6.11 Accuracy and Use of Data (see 1.01, 2.17, 5.03)

Behavior analysts do not fabricate data or falsify results in their research, publications, and presentations. They plan and carry

out their research and describe their procedures and ﬁndings to minimize the possibility that their research and results will

be misleading or misinterpreted. If they discover errors in their published data they take steps to correct them by following

publisher policy. Data from research projects are presented to the public and scientiﬁc community in their entirety whenever

possible. When that is not possible, behavior analysts take caution and explain the exclusion of data (whether single data

points, or partial or whole data sets) from presentations or manuscripts submitted for publication by providing a rationale and

description of what was excluded.

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