E-1.11 - 1.12 Multiple Relationships, Giving & Receiving Gifts

A multiple relationship occurs when a behavior analyst

comingles two or more of their roles with a client or someone associated with a client, stakeholder, supervisee, trainee, or research participant.

A BCBA is asked by her Director to observe his typically developing son to address his concern about his son's inattention and poor school performance. The BCBA agrees, but later realized this is a potentially conflicting role. What should she do?

She should explain to the Director the risks with multiple relationships and provide the names of other BCBAs who may be able to help.

A Program Director asks a BCBA whom she supervises to accompany her to a meeting at her son's school. The child has been acting out and the director feels that the BCBA could be helpful. Why is this a concern?

The BCBA is already in a subordinate work role with the Director and would be combining his role with an advocacy role for the Director's child.

In anticipation of problem behaviors, the parents of a client ask the BCBA to attend the child's birthday party to provide services during the party. The BCBA

agrees and does not bring a birthday gift for the child.

Over the Winter holiday, a parent sends a card to school for each staff member that works with her son. The BCBA accepts the card and takes it home before opening it. Inside is a $5 coffee shop gift card. Each staff member also received a $5 coffee shop gift card. The school policy allows staff members to accept gifts less than $15. The BCBA should

keep the gift card and thank the parent for their thoughtfulness, explaining that although appreciated, gifts are not necessary or expected.

When you find yourself in a multiple relationship, explain the risks to the party involved and

resolve the multiple relationships as soon as is feasible.

A multiple relationship may result in a

conflict of interest that might harm one or more parties.

The mother of your young son's friend is somewhat familiar with your ABA work in the community and tells you that she is unhappy with the services her son's school is providing. She asks for your help. You could

give her the contact information for a local advocate who is familiar with the educational system and the services available.

Your 2-year-old nephew is diagnosed with ASD. You immediately

offer to research BCBAs in the area who specialize in ASD and provide that list to your nephew's parents.

A client's family sends their BCBA a large professionally arranged bouquet of flowers for her birthday just before they leave town for three weeks. To stay consistent with the Code, the BCBA

places the flowers on her organizations' front desk and inform her coworkers of the family's gratitude for the services provided.