E7 Identify risks associated with multiple relationships, how to mitigate risks when unavoidable

E.7 Identify types of and risks associated with multiple relationships, and how to mitigate those risks when they are unavoidable.

Identifying types of multiple relationships involves understanding situations where a BCBA has more than one type of relationship with a client, supervisee, or colleague (e.g., both a professional and personal relationship). Recognizing the risks, such as conflicts of interest, compromised objectivity, and boundary issues, is essential. When multiple relationships are unavoidable, steps must be taken to minimize these risks to ensure ethical practice.

Example: A BCBA provides services to a child whose parent is also a close friend. This creates a multiple relationship, as the BCBA has both a professional relationship with the child and a personal relationship with the parent. To mitigate risks, the BCBA openly discusses the potential conflict of interest with the parent, sets clear boundaries between personal and professional interactions, and documents any steps taken to manage the situation. If necessary, the BCBA may refer the case to another professional to ensure objectivity is maintained.

E. Ethical and Professional Issues

E.1. Identify and apply core principles underlying the ethics codes for BACB certificants (e.g., benefit others; treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect; behave with integrity).

E.2. Identify the risks to oneself, others, and the profession as a result of engaging in unethical behavior.

E.3. Develop and maintain competence by engaging in professional development activities (e.g., read literature, seek consultation, establish mentors).

E.4. Identify and comply with requirements for collecting, using, protecting, and disclosing confidential information.

E.5. Identify and comply with requirements for making public statements about professional activities (e.g., social media activity; misrepresentation of professional credentials, behavior analysis, and service outcomes).

E.6. Identify the conditions under which services or supervision should be discontinued and apply steps that should
be taken when transitioning clients and supervisees to another professional.

E.7. Identify types of and risks associated with multiple relationships, and how to mitigate those risks when they are unavoidable.

E.8. Identify and apply interpersonal and other skills (e.g., accepting feedback, listening actively, seeking input, collaborating) to establish and maintain professional relationships.

E.9. Engage in cultural humility in service delivery and professional relationships.

E.10. Apply culturally responsive and inclusive service and supervision activities.

E.11. Identify personal biases and how they might interfere with professional activity.

E.12. Identify and apply the legal, regulatory, and practice requirements (e.g., licensure, jurisprudence, funding, certification) relevant to the delivery of behavior analytic services.