Association for Behavior Analysis International

Dual or multiple relationships are generally described as engaging in more than one kind of relationship with an individual that is secondary to the professional relationship (Barnett, 2008). While the Board Analyst Certification Board’s Professional and Ethical Compliance Code mandates avoidance of multiple relationships, it is likely that graduate students will encounter circumstances of this sort before becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. For instance, essential components of graduate training may include a relationship with an academic advisor who may also serve as a practice supervisor. Alternatively, a practice supervisor may be a more senior student who is also a friend or colleague. This panel of experts will explore various issues graduate students may want to consider for current and/or potential multiple relationships in graduate school. Areas of discussion will touch on ethical considerations when working with friends, colleagues, and advisors in other contexts such as academic and work settings and the importance of navigating through these issues early in one’s career.