rbt F.1 Core Ethical Principles

By RBThub February 23, 2026

Ethics isn't just about "following rules." It's about a mindset.

The BACB Ethics Code is built on four core principles. Think of these as the "North Star." If you ever find yourself in a difficult situation where the rules are unclear, look to these four principles to guide you home.

Executive Summary

This video introduces the foundational principles of the BACB Ethics Code. Before we get into specific rules (like "don't accept gifts"), we must understand the Why. The code is designed to protect the client above all else. We cover the four pillars: Benefiting Others, Treating with Dignity, Integrity, and Competence.

⏱️ Video Timeline

00:44
The 4 Core Principles
Benefit Others, Treat with Compassion/Dignity, Behave with Integrity, and Ensure Competence.
04:00
1. Benefit Others (Do No Harm)
The "Golden Rule" of ethics. Our primary goal is to help the client, not the parents, the school, or ourselves.
06:01
2. Behave with Integrity
Being honest, keeping promises, and taking accountability for mistakes. Do not misrepresent data.
02:37
3. Ensure Competence
Only practice within your scope. If you aren't trained on it, don't do it.

🔑 Key Insights

Client Welfare First: If the school asks you to do something that hurts the client, you must say no. The client is your priority.
Integrity = Truth: If you forget to take data, admit it. Do not fake data to "look good." That violates the core principle of integrity.
Dignity: Talk to the client, not about them. Respect their privacy and their choices.
Scope of Practice: RBTs implement plans; they do not design them. Staying in your lane is an ethical requirement.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if "Benefiting Others" conflicts with "Parent Wishes"?
A: Client Welfare Wins. If a parent asks for a punishment procedure that isn't necessary, we refuse because it violates "Do No Harm," even if the parent wants it.
Q: Can I exaggerate my credentials?
A: No. That violates Integrity. You must clearly state you are an RBT, not a behavior analyst or a doctor.

1. The Four Pillars of Ethics

These four concepts hold up the entire profession. Without them, ABA collapses.
ETHICAL PRACTICE Benefit Others Compassion Integrity Competence

2. "Do No Harm" in Practice

Core Principle: We must prioritize the safety and well-being of the client above all else.
Example

A parent asks you to force a child to sit for 2 hours straight to "build stamina."
Ethical Action: You refuse. This could cause physical or emotional harm. You consult your BCBA to find a more compassionate way to build duration (e.g., shaping 5 minutes at a time).

📝 Knowledge Check

Check your moral compass.

Q1: You accidentally break a client's toy. You are afraid the parents will be mad, so you hide the pieces. Which principle did you violate?

Answer: Integrity.
Integrity means being honest and accountable, even when you make a mistake.

Q2: A teacher asks you to help with a student who is not your client. You have never worked with this student before. What should you do?

Answer: Decline politely (Ensure Competence).
You are only competent to work with clients you have been trained on. You cannot practice outside your scope.
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Ethics Quiz

Mock Exam

Test your knowledge on the 4 Core Ethical Principles.

Start Practice Test

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