Course description
This course will introduce and thoroughly orient students to the professional and ethical compliance code for behaviour analysts. Students will work through a number of case scenarios identifying various breaches to the ethical code and engage in both individual reflection and group discussion to determine ethical responses and actions in response to difficult situations.
Course content
The following global ideas guide the design and delivery of this course:
- The application of ABA is grounded in the empirical sciences.
- The overarching goal of ABA is to enrich the quality of people’s lives.
- Clients have a right to effective treatment.
- Clients are involved in the planning and designing of behaviour change programs.
- Behaviour analysts obtain informed consent from clients prior to implementing assessment and/or behaviour change programs.
- Behaviour analysts rely on scientific knowledge to select and design behavioural interventions.
- Behaviour analysts make decisions regarding the continuation, discontinuation, and modification of behaviour change programs based on objective data and client wellbeing.
- Behavioural interventions are thoroughly individualized via detailed assessment processes.
- Behaviour analysts recommend reinforcement procedures over aversive procedures whenever possible.
- Behaviour analysts provide services, teach, and conduct research only within the boundaries of their competence.
- Behaviour analysts are truthful and honest.
- Behaviour analysts avoid multiple relationships and conflicts of interest.
- Behaviour analysts have a responsibility to the profession of behaviour analysis and colleagues through promoting an ethical culture.
Means of assessment
This is a graded course. Course assessment may include the following: Class participation, class presentation, quizzes, exams, case studies, clinical treatment plans, and academic essays.
Instructors may use a student’s record of attendance and/or level of active participation as