U-7 Assignment Ethic

Ethics Codes For this week’s assignment, you are playing the role of an experienced Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who has been working in the field for several years. The principal at Soundview Elementary School has called you to discuss a student in need of behavioral services. Because of the complex nature of working in public schools, and the nature of the behavior, you must consider your ethical responsibilities in taking on this case. Scenario Ali is a 5-year-old child diagnosed with autism that engages in several problem behaviors in a public-school classroom setting. The current classroom includes one teacher, a teacher’s assistant, and a paraprofessional with 12 students in the class. This is a self-contained classroom, and all of the students in the classroom have various needs. Ali’s most severe problem behavior includes self-injurious behavior of hitting herself in the forehead. This behavior is often mild in magnitude but sometimes more forceful to the point that it leaves a mark. Currently, the behavior occurs about 15 times per day. Ali’s parents are concerned that this behavior may be causing headaches and other pain. You have been hired by the school district to create a plan for Ali’s behavior and to train staff on the intervention. After observing the behavior, you meet with the principal and classroom teacher to discuss your findings. You notice that the behavior mostly occurs during group lessons or when the teacher is not attending to Ali. The function of the self-injurious behavior is hypothesized to be attention. You determine that the most appropriate behavior intervention is a Differential Reinforcement of Other behaviors (DRO) procedure for the absence of head hitting. Since the function is hypothesized to be attention-seeking, you also believe that extinction should be combined with the DRO. You understand that there is a potential for an extinction burst in cases like Ali’s. Therefore, before proceeding, you want to make certain that you have informed consent from all relevant parties and that everyone involved is well trained in the intervention. Assignment Directions Please read the assignment requirements for details on the guidelines and expectations. To prepare for this assignment, refer to Sections 1 and 2 of the code to discuss your professional responsibility and your responsibility in practice in Ali’s case. Then, refer to Sections 3 and 4 to discuss your responsibility to your client(s), and your ethical responsibility to supervise and train the staff. Please respond to the following: Sections of the Ethics Code • Introduce yourself and describe, in detail, the case, your role in it, and the four relevant Sections of the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts that you will be elaborating on. Section 1 • Identify the ethics code(s) from Section 1 that are relevant to the scenario. • Using specific information from the scenario, describe how the relevant code(s) apply to the situation. • Explain how you will ensure your adherence to the code(s). Section 2 • Identify the ethics code(s) from Section 2 that are relevant to the scenario. • Using specific information from the scenario, describe how the relevant code(s) apply to the situation. • Explain how you will ensure your adherence to the code(s). Section 3 • Identify the ethics code(s) from Section 3 that are relevant to the scenario. • Using specific information from the scenario, describe how the relevant code(s) apply to the situation. • Explain how you will ensure your adherence to the code(s). Section 4 • Identify the ethics code(s) from Section 4 that are relevant to the scenario. • Using specific information from the scenario, describe how the relevant code(s) apply to the situation. • Explain how you will ensure your adherence to the code(s). Summary • Summarize the main points of your presentation. References • Include a minimum of two scholarly, academic sources listed in APA format. • One should be your text, and the other should be the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts. https://www(dot)bacb(dot)com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Ethics-Code-for-Behavior-Analysts-240830-a.pdf 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 effectiveness 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. Updated 08/2024, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 9 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 efforts 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 Effective 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 Updated 08/2024, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 10 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 efforts 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. Updated 08/2024, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 11 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 effects; client and stakeholder preference; implementation efficiency; cost effectiveness) 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 effectiveness of restrictive or punishment-based procedures and modify or discontinue the behavior-change intervention in a timely manner if it is ineffective. 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 effective 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 staff, disruptions) that may interfere with or prevent service delivery. In such situations, behavior analysts remove or minimize the conditions, identify effective 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. Updated 08/2024, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 12 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, staffing). 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. Updated 08/2024, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 13 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 efforts 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 efforts 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 efforts 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 efforts to effectively 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. Updated 08/2024, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 14 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 effective 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 effective 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 effective 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 effective 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). Updated 08/2024, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 15 4.10 Evaluating Effects 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 efforts 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.