Ethics Principle 3

Tori’s company just received a contract with a high-profile school district and she was assigned to be the lead consultant. At her first meeting with the school’s administration, she was surprised by the aggressive nature of the staff and their hostile tone toward her. Before she knew what was happening, Tori began making assertions about her experience and the general effectiveness of ABA that were somewhat exaggerated. Tori left the meeting feeling exhausted and stressed. She decided to make a fresh start by sending an email to the administration with a more carefully constructed introduction, which included her actual experience and what the school can expect with regard to the consulting services and treatment outcomes.

After Andrew makes a big move to live abroad, he realizes he is unfamiliar with the laws protecting the clients he serves. Completely overwhelmed by living in a new country, he decides to take it slow and just do his best. He trusts that his diligent co-workers will point out his mistakes as he makes them.

James owns a business and employs many behavior analysts. One of his employees is the son of James’ graduate advisor. He is a very good behavior analyst but his arrogance seems to put the other consultants on edge. James notices that when this employee is present, everyone acts differently and are less likely to collaborate at meetings. James decides this person is toxic to the work environment. He makes a plan to provide corrective feedback to the employee and accepts that, though it would be difficult, it may become necessary to let the employee go if a positive change is not made.