Ethical Behavior Analysis: Evidence-Based Practice as a Framework for Ethical Decision Making

Contreras et al. (2022) wrote a how-to paper. They explain the evidence-based practice (EBP) triangle. The three sides are: best research, client values, and your clinical skill.

They show how to use this triangle every time you face an ethical question. No new data. Just a clear roadmap for BCBAs.

The paper says ethical choices get easier when you balance all three EBP parts. Example: a parent wants to drop all table work. You check the research (some DTT is useful), ask what matters most to the family (less stress at home), and use your skill to blend both needs.

The authors give scripts and worksheets so you can walk through the steps in real time.

Graber et al. (2023) extends this idea. They use the same EBP triangle to answer the neurodiversity critique. Instead of forcing neurotypical goals, you let autistic self-determination guide the client-values side.

Wilson et al. (2024) gives you the data you need. Their parent survey shows families see ABA as effective but cold. That is the client-values evidence you must weigh in the triangle.

Vivanti et al. (2025) shows the gap this paper tries to close. Even with strong evidence, policies can block good practice. The EBP triangle pushes you to advocate for policy change, not just perfect sessions.

Cox (2020) offers the next step. Once you decide an action is ethical, you can bring it to an ethics committee instead of deciding alone.

You already know the three EBP parts. This paper gives you a quick checklist to use them when ethics feel murky. Print the worksheet. Keep it in your session binder. Next time a parent, teacher, or insurance rep pushes back, walk through the three sides out loud. You will make faster, defensible choices and show others how ethical BAs think.