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 effective January 1, 2022.
This document should be referenced as: Behavior Analyst Certification Board. (2020). Ethics code for behavior analysts.
Littleton, CO: Author.
Copyright © 2020, BACB®, All rights reserved.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 2Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 Effective 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 BehaviorChange
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 Effects 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 | 3Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 efficiency, 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).
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 4Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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
effects 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
•	 Effectively 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
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 5Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 different 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
effective 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 | 6Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 affected 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 | 7Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
Glossary
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 effects; 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.
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).
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 8Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 official
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, agreedupon
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 affirming
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 | 9Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 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.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 10Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 11Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 12Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 13Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 14Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 behaviorchange
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.
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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 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).
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 16Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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.
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 efforts 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 affiliated, 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 efforts 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 efforts 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 efforts to remediate the situation,
documenting all actions taken and the eventual outcomes.
Behavior Analyst Certification Board | Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts | 17Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
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 efforts 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 efforts 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 efforts 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 efforts 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 efforts 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 | 18Updated 02/2021, Copyright © 2020, BACB® | All rights reserved.
service delivery and research within the Code. When professional services are offered 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 efforts 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.
Copyright © 2020 by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board®, Inc. (“BACB®”), all rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction,
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