rbt F.6 Public Statements

By RBThub February 23, 2026

You are proud of your client's progress. You want to post about it on Instagram.

STOP.

In the digital age, a "Public Statement" isn't just a press conference; it's a Tweet, a Facebook post, or a TikTok. This lesson covers how to represent yourself honestly and why protecting client privacy online is your most important ethical duty.

Executive Summary

This video uses the story of "Jasmine," an RBT who posted a photo of her client "Mateo" on social media. Even though she had good intentions, she violated two major ethical rules: Confidentiality (posting a client photo) and Truthful Representation (using the wrong job title).

⏱️ Video Timeline

00:05
The Mistake
Jasmine posts a photo of her client's device to celebrate a win. She didn't use his name, but his parents (and others) could still identify the device/location.
01:15
The Title Error
She called herself a "Behavior Analyst." This is a protected title. She is a "Registered Behavior Technician (RBT)."
03:14
Social Media Rules
If others can see it, it is a public statement. Even private accounts can be screenshot and shared.
08:02
Honest Claims
Do not say "Cured" or "Fixed." Use data-based language like "Learned a new skill" or "Increased independence."

🔑 Key Insights

RBT® Title: You must use the full title or "RBT." You cannot use "Behaviorist," "Therapist," or "Analyst" unless you hold those specific licenses.
Indirect Identification: Even without a name, a photo of a client's shoes, room, or handwriting can reveal their identity to people who know them.
No Guarantees: Never promise results ("We will fix your child in 3 months"). Every client is unique.
Delete It: If you realize you made an unethical post, remove it immediately and inform your supervisor.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I post a picture of a client if the parents give written permission?
A: Technically yes, but it is strongly discouraged. Once a photo is online, you lose control of it. Most companies have a strict "No Social Media" policy for this reason.
Q: Can I list "Behavior Analyst" on my resume if I am studying to become one?
A: No. You are a "Student" or "Trainee." You cannot use the title until you pass the BCBA exam.

1. Anatomy of an Unethical Post

Can you spot the red flags in this social media post?
PRIVACY! So proud of my client! He is finally... #Autism #Cured #BehaviorAnalyst FALSE CLAIM WRONG TITLE

2. Intellectual Property (Who owns the materials?)

Ethics Warning

Materials belong to the company.
You cannot take data sheets, token boards, or program binders with you when you quit a job. These are "Work Products" and contain confidential client info. Taking them is theft and an ethics violation.

📝 Knowledge Check

Post or Delete?

Q1: You want to put "Behavior Therapist" in your Instagram bio because it sounds better than "RBT." Is this allowed?

Answer: No.
You must use your actual credential ("Registered Behavior Technician" or "RBT"). Misrepresenting your credential is an ethics violation.

Q2: You crop a photo so the client's face isn't showing, but you can see their unique school uniform. Is it safe to post?

Answer: No.
The uniform is "Identifying Information." Anyone from that school could recognize it.
▶

Ethics Quiz

Mock Exam

Test your knowledge on Social Media and Public Statements.

Start Practice Test

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