Episode 10: Addressing Potential Ethics Violations With Others

Summary

In this episode of Inside the BACB, Dr. Tyra Sellers, Director of Ethics, discusses the ethics requirement for addressing potential code violations in behavior analysis. She emphasizes the importance of direct communication for timely consumer protection and professional integrity. The podcast provides guidance on how to approach such conversations respectfully, assess situations, and document outcomes, with the aim of resolving issues or reporting them to the BACB Ethics Department if necessary.

Takeaways

• 📜 The podcast discusses the ethics requirement in the BACB's Professional and Ethical Compliance Code and the RBT Code, emphasizing direct communication to address potential code violations.
• 🤝 The primary purpose of this requirement is timely consumer protection and implementing best practices for professional behavior.
• 🚨 In cases where a consumer is at immediate risk of serious harm, appropriate agencies should be engaged for mandated reporting.
• 💡 Addressing concerns directly can lead to quick resolution and is an opportunity for all parties involved to grow and benefit from the experience.
• 🗣️ Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential when having difficult conversations about potential ethical violations.
• 🤔 It's important to approach such conversations with compassionate concern and respectful curiosity, considering all possible contributing factors.
• 📝 Documentation is crucial after conversations about potential violations, including sending a summary follow-up email to ensure clarity and record-keeping.
• 📚 The script provides a specific example related to testimonials and advertising, illustrating how to approach a potential violation respectfully.
• 🔍 An initial assessment is necessary to determine if addressing the issue directly will be successful and whether it could increase the risk of harm.
• 🛑 If the conversation does not resolve the issue or if the violation persists, submitting a Notice of Alleged Violation to the BACB’s Ethics Department may be necessary.
• 🛡️ The ethics requirement is common across helping professions and is critical for maintaining the integrity of the profession and consumer protection.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the ethics requirement discussed in the podcast?

The primary focus of the ethics requirement is on timely consumer protection and implementing best practices regarding expectations for professional behavior.

Who is Dr. Tyra Sellers in the context of the podcast?

Dr. Tyra Sellers is the Director of Ethics for the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).

What is the purpose of addressing suspected ethical issues directly with an individual?

Addressing suspected issues directly with an individual can result in quick resolution of the issue, translating into timely consumer protection.

What should be the approach when addressing a colleague or professional about a potential ethical violation?

The approach should come from a place of compassionate concern and respectful curiosity, being open to the possibility that the perceived violation might be a misunderstanding once all facts are considered.

Why is it important to document the conversation after addressing a potential ethical violation?

Documenting the conversation is important for record-keeping and can be useful for reference in case further action is needed, such as submitting a Notice of Alleged Violation.

What should be the initial step before addressing a potential ethical violation directly with an individual?

The initial step is to conduct an assessment of the situation to determine if directly addressing it is likely to be successful and whether it could potentially worsen the situation or increase the risk of harm.

How can addressing a concern directly benefit both parties involved?

Addressing a concern directly provides an opportunity for both parties to expand their skills related to problem identification, problem-solving, effective communication, and having difficult conversations.

What is the significance of the code element regarding testimonials and advertising in the context of the BACB's ethics?

The code element prohibits soliciting or using testimonials from current clients and provides instructions on how to use testimonials from former clients, which is crucial for consumer protection and maintaining the integrity of the profession.

What should one do if they suspect a colleague is using testimonials from current clients on their website?

One should initiate a conversation with the colleague to gather information and clarify whether the testimonials are from current or former clients, and if necessary, discuss the ethical requirements regarding the use of testimonials.

What is the recommended course of action if the individual is unwilling or unlikely to fix a verified ethical violation?

If the individual is unwilling or unlikely to fix the verified ethical violation, one should consider submitting a Notice of Alleged Violation to the BACB’s Ethics Department.

What is the role of supervisors or professors in preparing individuals for having difficult ethical conversations?

Supervisors or professors should actively address the topic of ethical conversations and teach the necessary skills to their trainees, staff, or students, potentially using resources that provide strategies for difficult conversations.