What constitutes an ethical violation in ABA practice?

• A. Any action that breaches the BACB Ethics Code, such as compromising client rights, confidentiality, or professional boundaries.
• B. A minor misstep in record-keeping.
• C. An initial consultation without consent.
• D. A scheduling conflict.

Answer: (A)

Actions that violate the BACB Ethics Code are ethical violations in ABA practice. The code sets standards to protect client rights, maintain confidentiality, and keep professional boundaries, among other duties. When a behavior directly breaches those protections—such as compromising a client’s rights, disclosing confidential information, or crossing professional boundaries—it’s an ethical violation. Routine mistakes in documentation or scheduling aren’t automatically ethics violations unless they infringe those protections. Consent matters too; operating without proper informed consent is a serious ethics concern because consent is required before providing services.