RBT Ethics Code - Version 12 - 2018 Code of Ethics Requirements

Sep 20, 2026

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RBT® Ethics Code sets ethical requirements for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and RBT applicants, including responsibilities for supervisors who oversee RBT practice. The code emphasizes responsible conduct through honesty, legal and ethical compliance, avoidance of fraudulent statements, proper credential reporting, trademark and copyright permission, and documented conflict resolution. It also governs client-facing duties: protecting rights, preventing harm, nondiscrimination, gift prohibitions, confidentiality and privacy controls, and obtaining specific consent for recordings and handling records responsibly.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryReligion & Spirituality

FormatPDF

Pages2

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

Section 1 – Responsible Conduct

1.01–1.13

Section 2 – Responsibility to Clients

2.01–2.10

RBT® Ethics Code The RBT® Ethics Code describes the ethical requirements for both RBTs and RBT applicants. All RBTs and RBT applicants must agree to abide by this code. Because RBTs are not independent practitioners and must receive ongoing supervision of their practice, those who supervise RBTs must also be familiar with this code. Section 1 – Responsible Conduct 1.01 RBTs uphold and promote the values and core principles of behavior analysis. 1.02 RBTs have an obligation to remain familiar with this code. Lack of knowledge or understanding of this code does not excuse unethical conduct. 1.03 RBTs are truthful and honest and create an environment that promotes truthful and honest behavior in others. They promote an ethical culture in their work environments and make others aware of this code. 1.04 RBTs act in a way that conforms to the legal and ethical codes of the professional and social communities where they are members. They do not lead others to engage in fraudulent, illegal, or unethical conduct. 1.05 If RBTs’ ethical responsibilities conflict with employer policies, RBTs must bring the conflict to their supervisor’s attention, document that they did so, and document the resolution. 1.06 RBTs avoid multiple relationships with clients and supervisors. If they find that a multiple relationship has developed due to unforeseen circumstances, they inform their supervisor and work to resolve it. If the multiple relationship involves their supervisor, the RBT should report it to the person to whom their supervisor reports. 1.07 RBTs do not engage in sexual relationships with clients or supervisors. RBTs refrain from sexual relationships with former clients or supervisors for at least two (2) years following the date the working relationship ended. 1.08 RBTs recognize that their personal problems and conflicts with others may impact their ability to perform their duties and refrain from providing services when this is the case. 1.09 RBTs follow through on obligations and contractual commitments with high quality work and they do not make commitments they cannot keep. 1.10 RBTs do not make false, deceptive, misleading, exaggerated, or fraudulent public statements about their work or qualifications. 1.11 RBTs provide a current and accurate set of credentials (e.g., degrees, certifications) to clients, employers, and supervisors upon request. Changes to certification status must be immediately reported to employers and supervisors. 1.12 RBTs obtain permission to use trademarked or copyrighted materials as required by law. RBTs provide citations that recognize the intellectual property of others, including trademark and copyright symbols. 1.13 RBTs attempt to resolve issues informally when possible, without violating confidentiality, by first bringing the issue to the attention of their supervisor and then the individual involved. RBTs document their efforts to address any of these issues. If the matter cannot be resolved informally, they report it to the appropriate authority (e.g. , employer, director, regulatory authority) . If the matter meets the reporting requirements of the BACB, RBTs must submit a formal complaint to the BACB. Version 12/2018, Copyright © 2018, BACB® | All rights reserved. Behavior Analyst Certification Board | RBT Ethics Code | 1 Section 2 – Responsibility to Clients 2.01 RBTs support the legal rights and preferences of clients. 2.02 If RBTs become aware that a client’s legal rights are being violated, or if there is risk of harm, RBTs must take the necessary action to protect the client. This includes but is not limited to: (1) contacting relevant authorities; (2) following organizational policies; (3) consulting with their supervisor; and (4) documenting their efforts to address the matter. 2.03 When providing services, RBTs do not discriminate against, demean, or harass individuals or groups on the basis of age, gender, race, culture, ethnicity, national origin,

FAQs

Who must follow the RBT Ethics Code?

RBTs, RBT applicants, and supervisors who oversee RBTs must be familiar with and abide by the code.

What should RBTs do if ethical responsibilities conflict with employer policies?

RBTs must inform their supervisor about the conflict, document that they did so, and document the resolution.

What confidentiality and recording rules apply to RBTs?

RBTs must protect confidentiality and privacy, share confidential information only with those who need to know for job-related purposes, and obtain permission from each individual before recording interviews and service sessions.

Sep 20, 2026

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