Back to Basics: Ethics for Behavior Analysts

In day-to-day practice, behavior analysts face many complex challenges that require both an accurate interpretation of ethical guidelines and a fair amount of independent judgment. Back to Basics: Ethics for Behavior Analysts guides readers on how to prevent conflicts and develop comfort where there is discomfort, while it also effectively and ethically disseminates information about the science of behavior analysis. The book includes both student and instructor resources, along with supplemental readings, podcast episodes, scenarios, essay prompts, and instructor quiz questions, making it a valuable resource for early career and seasoned analysts alike. Informed by the authors’ decades of practice, this book provides a guide on how to successfully navigate ethical dilemmas using real-life scenarios.

• Features a number of ethical scenarios faced by practicing behavioral analysts
• Contains step-by-step guides to resolving conflicts
• Highlights relevant ethical code elements
• Includes additional materials for instructors and students

Amanda N. Kelly, PhD, BCBA-D, LBA (also known as Behaviorbabe) obtained her bachelors in elementary education from Shepherd University, her masters in behavioral education, and doctorate in behavior analysis from Simmons University. Dr. Kelly has served on multiple boards and committees including Together For Our Keiki, the Hawai'i Association for Behavior Analysis, and the Hawai'i Disability Rights Center. Dr. Kelly's dedication and commitment in improving access to services, as well as her outstanding advocacy, has resulted in several awards including Jerry Shook Practitioner of the Year (2012), Advocacy Group of the Year (2015), and Provider Advocate of the Year (2019). Dr. Kelly is considered a thought-leader in behavior analysis and is often highly sought after as a speaker at national, as well as international events. In addition to her expertise helping families and school teams, Dr. Kelly's interests extend to dissemination, public policy, and sustainable behavior change.

Emily Shraga, BCBA, LBA completed her undergraduate degree in psychology at Marquette University and Master of Arts degree in applied behavior analysis from Ball State University. After completion of her bachelor’s degree, Emily was commissioned to the US Army and served over 4 years on active duty, including a year-long deployment to Afghanistan. Emily is a member of the Virginia Association for Behavior Analysis and Florida Association for Behavior Analysis. As a clinical practitioner, Emily’s interests include early intervention, verbal behavior, mentoring those seeking certification, and advocating for clients for appropriate insurance coverage.

Lara Bollinger has a M.S.Ed. in Intensive Special Needs Instruction and a J.D. with a focus in education law and public policy. Lara has been a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) since 2010 and has worked with individuals with developmental disabilities in a variety of settings. She has experience in creating plans for insurance funders that meet the definition of medical necessity and currently serves as an Associate at Mack Rosenberg Law where she assists ABA companies with insurance appeals, creating appropriate documentation, and understanding and interpreting federal and state laws related to practice. While living in Hawai’i, Lara joined Hawai’i Association for Behavior Analysis Legislative committee, where she became an advocate for students with disabilities to state legislators, working to achieve successful licensure of Behavior Analysts and statewide Autism insurance reform in Hawai’i. Additionally, Lara serves as a founding director of Together for our Keiki, a Hawai’i based non-profit organization whose mission is to advocate and create a diverse and inclusive community for our keiki (children) by empowering parents and caregivers and educating local stakeholders.