Dealing with uncertainty: A systematic approach to addressing value-based ethical dilemmas in behavioral services

Abstract

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) service delivery is a complicated process and some issues stemming from this process can be controversial. Ethical dilemmas can challenge ABA practitioners and require thorough examination. The goal of this paper is to identify the existence of value-based ethical dilemmas stemming from potential tensions among underlying values and to provide behavior practitioners with a systematic approach to addressing these dilemmas. Specifically, we use a step-by-step protocol for ethical deliberation and dilemma resolution in situations involving value-based ethical dilemmas. We describe the application of this approach to clinical cases and its implications for services provided via telehealth.