The following ethics codes have been listed on the Behavior Analysis Certification Board (BACB) website as being violated in reportable incidents under investigation by the board. Code 2.05 (Documentation Protection and Retention) is particularly important. Describe in your own words what you think that code means, why it is important, and then describe how you can avoid violating the code in your own practice. Then pick a second one from this list and do the same for that code.
1.01 Being Truthful
1.02 Conforming with Legal and Professional Requirements
1.05 Practicing within Scope of Competence
2.01 Providing Effective Treatment
2.05 Documentation Protection and Retention
2.06 Accuracy in Service Billing and Reporting
3.03 Accepting Clients
5:03 Public Statements by Behavior Analysts
I believe that Code 2.05 (Documentation Protection and Retention) refers to how documents are stored and protected. It is important for all documentation to be properly stored and kept away from those who do not need to have access to it. Documents can contain sensitive information such as identifying and/or personal information of a client. Any and all information regarding a client is confidential and any document with that type of information should be handled properly and with care. I can avoid violating Code 2.05 by making sure the documents are stored in a locked and secure environment. This includes both electronic and physical documents.
I understand Code 3.03 Accepting Clients as meaning a BCBA should only accept clients that they are trained and have the skills to serve. I also understand this code to mean a BCBA should only accept clients that they have the time and resources to provide services to. It is important for a BCBA
to consider the best interest and needs of a client. For example, if a BCBA knows that they are currently overwhelmed with clients, they should not accept more clients because they would not get the best quality of service. I can avoid violating this code by referring clients to other appropriate services
when I know I cannot provide the services they need.
