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| Behavior Analyst Credentialing Requirements: Considerations Related to Ethics and Supervision |
| Sunday, May 25, 2025 |
| 12:00 PM–12:50 PM |
| Marriott Marquis, M2 Level, Marquis Salon 7-10 |
| Area: PCH/AUT; Domain: Service Delivery |
| Chair: Susan Wilczynski (Ball State University) |
| CE Instructor: Gordon Bourland, Ph.D. |
| Abstract: Licensing and other credentialing requirements for behavior analysts universally include ethical considerations as well as regulations for supervision of trainees and technicians. Across credentialing jurisdictions, some of those regulations vary. That variation poses challenges for practitioners, especially for those working in multiple jurisdictions (e.g., multiple states in the US). The variations can generate confusions and misunderstandings for practitioners in making sure that they practice ethically. Those challenges can include providing supervision, in compliance with relevant laws and regulations whenever a behavior analyst is credentialed. Additionally, practicing ethically and in compliance with credentialing requirements can be complicated by ambiguity in some of the requirements in credentialing requirements as well as by emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. This symposium will address challenges for behavior analysts regarding engaging in political activities, providing supervision, and using artificial intelligence. Challenges will be reviewed, and recommendations will be made regarding ethical and effective ways to address them for each of the types of challenges addressed. |
| Instruction Level: Intermediate |
| Target Audience: - Being familiar with (identifying and/or stating) ethical standards for behavior analysts - Being familiar with (identifying and/or stating) common behavior analyst credentialing requirements - Being familiar with (identifying and/or stating) supervision requirements for behavior analysis trainees - Being familiar with (identifying and/or stating) professional political activities in which behavior analysts can or have engaged - Being familiar with (identifying and/or stating) the general nature of artificial intelligence applications in human services |
Learning Objectives: 1. state at least 2 ethical challenges regarding supervising trainees
2. state at least 2 ethical challenges regarding behavior analysts engaging in professional political activites
3. state at least 2 ethical challenges regarding using artifical intelligence in ABA services
4. state at least 2 possible ways to address ethical challenges regarding supervising trainees
5. state at least 2 possible ways to address ethical challenges regarding engaging in professional political activites
6. state at least 2 possible ways to address ethical challenges regarding using artifical intelligence in ABA services |
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| Ethically Supervising Behavior Analysis Student Trainees: Best Practices for Credentialing, Certification, and Licensure Preparation |
| SHERRY L. SERDIKOFF (Savannah State University) |
| Abstract: Effective supervision is critical in shaping the next generation of behavior analysts and ensuring ethical practices. This presentation discusses the core responsibilities of instructors and supervisors when supervising student trainees preparing for credentialing, including certification and licensure, in applied behavior analysis (ABA), referencing key requirements of behavior analyst certification and licensing organizations. Key topics will include developing competency-based training, providing meaningful feedback, and fostering professional growth while adhering to ethical considerations. Ethical responsibilities of trainees also will be considered. Challenges in addressing those issues in an ethical and effective manner will be addressed. Recommendations will be made for addressing each challenge in an ethical and effective manner. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to support student trainees in gaining the necessary skills for successful credentialing while upholding ethical principles. The presentation will highlight the long-term impact of ethical supervision on both the student trainee’s career and the field of behavior analysis. |
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| Reasons to Behave Ethically When Taking Professional Political Action |
| SUSAN WILCZYNSKI (Ball State University) |
| Abstract: In a time when citizenry often observe their politicians motivate the masses through misinformation and mud-slinging, it would be easy for anyone endeavoring to pass legislation to follow these models. Whether involved in passing legislation impacting the profession of behavior analysis, supporting the development of rules and regulations post-legislation, or addressing sunsetting laws, behavior analysts have an obligation to follow ethical practices. This presentation examines ethical codes and guiding principles that are relevant to ethical decision-making as behavior analysts engage in political action. Illustrating examples are offered on how the core principles of benefiting others, treating others with compassion, dignity, and respect, behaving with integrity, and ensuring competence can support ethical decision-making as behavior analysts address needed legislation. In addition, specific ethical codes (e.g., code 5.09 - Using testimonials for nonadvertising purposes) that are more likely to lead to ethical code violations will be described. Armed with an understanding of how ethics are relevant to the legislative process, attendees will be better prepared to take positive and ethical professional actions that support their profession, their clients, and their communities. |
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Ethical Considerations in Licensed Behavior Analysts Using Artificial Intelligence in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Services and Supervision |
| GORDON BOURLAND (Trinity Behavioral Associates), Chris Ninness (Behavioral Software Systems), Lee Mason (Child Study Center at Cook Children's) |
| Abstract: Artificial intelligence (AI) has evolved into a powerful set of tools that can expand human capacities to create things, control activities, solve problems, etc. Already, numerous AI applications have proven beneficial- sometimes for promoting the common good, sometimes for generating income, etc., but they also have contributed to and have the potential to exacerbate human problems as well as create new ones. Both types of outcomes are apparent in human services areas such as medicine and education. AI is just beginning to be incorporated into applied behavior analysis (ABA). Consequently, for licensed behavior analysts, using AI in ABA work must conform to the ethical requirements for licensed behavior analysts including supervision. Before it is incorporated to a great extent, behavior analysts are well advised to carefully consider how it might be used to make the world a better place (i.e., in socially valid ways) as well as how it might have the opposite outcomes, focusing on ethical issues. This paper primarily addresses ethical considerations related to incorporating AI in ABA, including supervision, after a brief review of how AI might be used in ABA work. |
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