This comparison draws in part from “DoBetter 2018 Bundle – License” (Do Better Collective), and extends it with peer-reviewed research from our library of 27,900+ ABA research articles. The decision framework, BACB ethics code references, and cross-links below are synthesized by Behaviorist Book Club.
View the original presentation →Behavior analysts can approach ethics through two distinct orientations. A compliance-oriented approach focuses on meeting the minimum requirements of the ethics code and avoiding violations. A values-driven approach uses the ethics code as a foundation while also actively pursuing practice that is culturally responsive, socially valid, and aligned with the core principles of benefiting others and respecting dignity. Both approaches maintain ethical practice, but they produce different levels of engagement with the ethical dimensions of clinical work. The DoBetter framework advocates for a values-driven orientation that goes beyond compliance to embrace the full spirit of ethical, inclusive practice.
| Factor | Evidence-Based Approach | Traditional Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship to the ethics code | Compliance-oriented: Treats the code as a set of rules to follow; asks 'Am I violating any section?' | Values-driven: Treats the code as a foundation; asks 'Am I fully realizing the principles behind these sections?' |
| Goal selection process | Compliance-oriented: Selects goals based on clinical assessment and professional judgment | Values-driven: Selects goals through collaborative process that centers the individual's and family's values and priorities |
| Cultural considerations | Compliance-oriented: Avoids discrimination and meets minimum diversity training requirements | Values-driven: Actively develops cultural competence and adapts practice to diverse cultural contexts |
| Client participation | Compliance-oriented: Obtains informed consent and periodic input | Values-driven: Creates ongoing, meaningful opportunities for client and family voice in all treatment decisions |
| Self-examination | Compliance-oriented: Reviews behavior against code sections periodically | Values-driven: Engages in ongoing reflection about values, biases, power dynamics, and cultural assumptions |
| Response to criticism from service recipients | Compliance-oriented: Defends practice if it meets code requirements | Values-driven: Engages genuinely with feedback and uses it to improve practice |
| Social validity emphasis | Compliance-oriented: Measures social validity as required; may treat it as a procedural step | Values-driven: Centers social validity as a core criterion for treatment quality alongside behavioral outcomes |
The ABA Clubhouse has 60+ on-demand CEUs including ethics, supervision, and clinical topics like this one. Plus a new live CEU every Wednesday.
Use this framework when approaching dobetter 2018 bundle – license in your practice:
Does the data support a need for intervention? Is there a meaningful impact on the individual's quality of life, safety, or access to reinforcement?
YES → Proceed to assessment NO → Document reasoning, monitor
A functional assessment should guide intervention selection. Avoid defaulting to standard protocols without individual analysis. Consider environmental variables, setting events, and private events.
YES → Select evidence-based approach matched to function NO → Complete assessment first
Goals should be co-developed. Assent and informed consent are ethical requirements. The individual's preferences and values matter in selecting both goals and methods.
YES → Proceed with collaborative plan NO → Engage in shared decision-making
This course covers the clinical and ethical dimensions in detail with structured learning objectives and CEU credit.
DoBetter 2018 Bundle – License — Do Better Collective · 35.5 BACB Ethics CEUs · $355
Take This Course →We extended this decision guide with research from our library — dig into the peer-reviewed studies behind each approach, in plain-English summaries written for BCBAs.
160 research articles with practitioner takeaways
155 research articles with practitioner takeaways
128 research articles with practitioner takeaways
35.5 BACB Ethics CEUs · $355 · Do Better Collective
Research-backed educational guide
Research-backed answers for behavior analysts
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All behavior-analytic intervention is individualized. The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute clinical advice. Treatment decisions should be informed by the best available published research, individualized assessment, and obtained with the informed consent of the client or their legal guardian. Behavior analysts are responsible for practicing within the boundaries of their competence and adhering to the BACB Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts.