What Are Multiple Relationships?
A multiple relationship exists when a behavior analyst has a professional relationship with a person and simultaneously holds another role with that same person, a close associate, or a family member. Common examples include providing services to a friend's child, supervising a former student, or entering a business arrangement with a current client's parent.
The 2022 Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts addresses multiple relationships under Standard 1.11, which states that behavior analysts should avoid multiple relationships that could reasonably be expected to impair their objectivity, competence, or effectiveness, or that could harm or exploit the other party.
Why Multiple Relationships Are Problematic
Multiple relationships create risks because they can:
- Compromise clinical objectivity when personal feelings influence professional decisions
- Create power imbalances that make it difficult for clients or supervisees to advocate for themselves
- Lead to exploitation, even when unintentional
- Blur professional boundaries in ways that confuse clients and their families
- Result in conflicts of interest that undermine the quality of services
Consider a scenario where a BCBA provides ABA services to the child of a close personal friend. When the data show that the current intervention is not working, the BCBA may hesitate to recommend a more intensive (and more expensive) program because of the friendship. This hesitation, even if subtle, compromises the quality of care.
Types of Multiple Relationships in ABA
Social and Personal Relationships
These arise when a BCBA has a pre-existing personal connection with a client or their family. In small towns or tight-knit communities, it may be nearly impossible to avoid all social overlap. The key is to recognize when social familiarity crosses into territory that could affect professional judgment.
Business and Financial Relationships
Entering financial arrangements with clients or their families outside of the professional relationship creates significant ethical risk. Accepting gifts of substantial value, hiring a client's parent as an employee, or investing in a business with a supervisee are all examples of financial multiple relationships.
Supervisory Overlaps
A BCBA who supervises an individual while also serving as that person's therapist, instructor, or employer holds overlapping roles that can compromise the supervisory relationship. The power dynamic inherent in supervision makes it particularly important to maintain clear boundaries.
A Framework for Evaluating Multiple Relationships
Not all multiple relationships are avoidable, and not all are harmful. The ethics code recognizes this by focusing on relationships that could "reasonably be expected" to cause problems. Use the following framework when evaluating a potential multiple relationship:
- Identify the relationship: Clearly define both roles you hold or would hold with the individual.
- Assess the risk: Could this relationship impair your objectivity or effectiveness? Could it harm or exploit the other party?
- Consider alternatives: Is there another provider, supervisor, or professional who could fill one of the roles?
- Consult: Discuss the situation with a trusted colleague or your own supervisor before making a decision.
- Document: Record your decision-making process, including the factors you considered and the steps you took to mitigate risk.
Managing Unavoidable Multiple Relationships
In some cases, particularly in rural or underserved areas, multiple relationships cannot be avoided without denying services entirely. When this happens, take proactive steps to manage the risk:
- Discuss the situation openly with the client or supervisee and document the conversation
- Establish clear boundaries at the outset and revisit them regularly
- Seek ongoing consultation from a peer or ethics committee
- Monitor your own behavior for signs of impaired objectivity
- Create a plan for addressing boundary violations if they occur
Example: Small Community Practice
A BCBA in a rural area is asked to provide services to a child whose parent serves on the same school board as the BCBA. After assessing the situation, the BCBA determines that no other qualified provider is available within 60 miles. The BCBA discusses the potential conflict with the parent, documents the conversation, and establishes a protocol for managing any school board interactions that could relate to the child's services.
Multiple Relationships on the BCBA Exam
Ethics questions on the BCBA exam frequently present scenarios involving multiple relationships. When answering these questions, look for the response that:
- Prioritizes the welfare of the client
- Recognizes the potential for harm, even when intentions are good
- Includes consultation with colleagues or supervisors
- Documents the decision-making process
- Avoids the relationship when feasible, or manages it transparently when avoidance is not possible
Remember that the correct answer is rarely "do nothing" or "proceed without addressing the issue." The BACB expects behavior analysts to proactively identify and manage ethical risks.
Conclusion
Multiple relationships are among the most common ethical challenges in behavior analysis. By using a structured evaluation framework, consulting with peers, and maintaining transparent communication with clients and supervisees, you can navigate these situations effectively while protecting the welfare of those you serve.