Ethics for Behavior Analysts

Jon S. Bailey, PhD, BCBA-D, is Emeritus Professor of Psychology at Florida State University, where he has taught for over 50 years. Currently, he teaches ethics and other graduate courses for behavior analysts. He was a founding director of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® and is past president of the Florida Association for Behavior Analysis.Mary R. Burch, PhD, BCBA-D, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst®. She has more than 25 years’ experience in developmental disabilities. She has been a behavior specialist, QMRP, unit director, and consulting behavior analyst in developmental disabilities, mental health, and preschool settings.

"This book is an essential resource for behavior analytic ethics courses. The way that the fourth edition highlights the changes made in the 2022 version of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board® Ethics Code is invaluable and so helpful for anyone who uses the text. The presentation of considerations and a decision-making flowchart provides such a pragmatic way to solve ethical dilemmas." Adel C. Najdowski, PhD, BCBA-D, Associate Professor, Pepperdine University"The 4th edition of Ethics for Behavior Analysts is a must read for all behavior analysts. Professors, students, and practitioners have relied on Drs. Bailey and Burch as well-established experts in the areas of ethics and professional behavior in the field of ABA for years and will be well-served continuing to do so with the latest edition to this textbook."Stephanie Kuhn, PhD, LP, LBA, BCBA-D, Associate Professor; Program Coordinator, Applied Behavior Analysis Program, Western Connecticut State UniversityPraise for the previous edition: "Ethics for Behavior Analysts, 3rd Edition by Bailey and Burch is another winner. It covers all the essential elements of ethics in an accessible and comprehensive manner. With valuable new chapters, the most up-to-date information, and numerous case examples that facilitate a problem-solving approach to ethical issues, this book is an invaluable resource. Students and professionals in behavior analysis should keep it close at hand."Raymond G. Miltenberger, PhD, BCBA-D, Professor, University of South Florida"This book is the ‘go-to’ ethics book for our field of applied behavior analysis. Bailey and Burch handle the universe of ethics with a perfect touch. Ranging from formal presentation of ethical requirements, to real-life examples that all readers will relate to, this book will raise the awareness of ethics and ethical conduct, which in turn will increase the chances that the clients who we serve will be treated humanely and safely."Thomas Zane, PhD, BCBA-D, Institute for Behavioral Studies, Endicott College"Bailey and Burch bring clarity to the BACB Professional and Ethical Compliance Code through cogent discussion of each element and thoughtful consideration of the myriad issues facing practicing behavior analysts. Practitioners of all levels will find valuable insight from numerous examples of real-life ethical dilemmas."Dorothea C. Lerman, PhD, BCBA-D, University of Houston, Clear Lake

• UNIT I: Background for Ethics in Behavior Analysis 1. How We Got Here 2. Changes to the 2022 Ethics Code 3. Everyday Ethical Challenges for Average Citizens and Behavior Analysts UNIT II: Understanding the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts 4. Core Principles and Distinction of Client Versus Stakeholder 5. Ethical Decision-Making: Simple Ethical Questions Versus Complex Ethical Dilemmas UNIT III: Ethics Standards 6. Section 1: Responsibility as a Professional 7. Section 2: Responsibility in Practice 8. Section 3: Responsibility to Clients and Stakeholders 9. Section 4: Responsibility to Supervisees and Trainees 10. Section 5: Responsibility in Public Statements 11. Section 6: Responsibility in Research UNIT IV: Professional Skills for Ethical Behavior Analysts 12. Delivering the Ethics Message Effectively 13. Using a Declaration of Professional Practices and Procedures for Behavior Analysts 14. Finding an Ethical Place to Work 15. Practical Tips for Ethical Conduct on Your First Job 16. A Code of Ethics for Professional Organizations 17. Reporting a Behavior Analyst via Notice of Alleged Violation