Ethics and Professionalism

Understanding the foundations of ethical thinking involving different perspectives and rational for decision-making within a behavioural framework is essential when working with ASD clients. Students explore the professional code of ethics that are essential for ethical practice. Through the use of case studies, practice vignettes, structured exercises and group discussions, students develop skills to think critically and apply general ethical principles to particular situations. Students build on the foundations for developing ethical guidelines for practice and examining areas related to legislative acts. An overview of the Behaviour Analyst Certification Board (BACB) guidelines of responsible conduct for a behaviour analyst and the Ontario Association for Behaviour Analysists (ONTABA) standards of practice are explored. Students evaluate their own professional expertise and limitations for ongoing professional development and planning.