| Problem-solving step | Your response | Response example |
|---|---|---|
| Identify the problem |
Communication Problems |
The supervisee’s unresponsiveness has halted the progression of an effective supervision program. |
| Relevant ethical standard(s) |
4.11 Facilitating Continuity of Supervision |
4.08 Performance Monitoring and Feedback |
| Consider dimensions of the problem |
The implementation of behavior plans, data collection, parent training may be at risk. |
Christine has a responsibility to create a supervision program that engages supervisees in progress toward goals and identify barriers to effective supervision. The supervisee also has a responsibility to respond to feedback and actively participate. These responsibilities and standards for communication and responding to feedback are stated in the contract for trainees and BCaBA supervisees, but there is no contract for RBT supervision. The supervisee cannot continue to work if Christine refuses to continue with supervision, which might cause conflict with her employer. |
| Consider courses of action & potential consequences |
Discuss with supervisor about the ethics problems related to the case and if there is no tangible solution find another supervisor. |
Christine can deliver a written warning and plan for remediation with consequences outlined, but she does not have the authority to terminate the RBT’s employment. Christine also fears for her own employment if she pursues the matter further. If she continues with supervision, Christine is certain she will be violating the ethics code by signing off on supervision hours that have no effect on the supervisee’s service delivery. |
| Select a course of action |
Find another supervisor and set clear communication expectation. |
Christine decides that her BCBA certification is the most important thing and that continuing with an unethical situation will jeopardize her credentials. She writes a memo to her employer, citing the relevant codes from the BACB, attached a copy of the code, and then proceeds with a plan for remediation. She cannot fire the RBT but she can refuse to provide his supervision. |
| Implement and evaluate course of action |
Evaluate the effectiveness of the action by monitoring supervisee implementation of the treatment |
Christine’s course of action was not the easiest option but it was the only option for her to continue to work as a behavior analyst in the future. Also, putting her foot down will send the message to her employer that she answers to the ethics codes first. |
