Problem: Review your classmates' response, using the following ideas as a guide:
Does the summary of the evolution of ethical codes in applied behavior analysis thoroughly compare the APA (2017) and BACB (2022) codes, highlighting similarities and differences?
Is the discussion of ethics in animal research clear and detailed, including an accurate description of the IACUC and its role in promoting ethical practices? Need Assignment Help?
Does the explanation of ethical considerations in translational research and Betz's (2024) guidelines effectively address the unique challenges of this research area?
Are the steps recommended for researchers to support their own ethical conduct actionable, clear, and well-supported by the course readings?
Ask at least one thoughtful follow-up question.
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) has gone through its own evolution in regards to ethic codes relevant to research and practice in applied behavior analysis. It first began in 1999 as "Professional (Disciplinary) Standards" which focused on misconduct within the practice. In 2001 the "Guidelines for Responsible Conduct for Behavior Analysts" was created. This turned into the "Professional and ethical compliance code" in 2014 which then lead into the current "Ethics codes for Behavior Analysts" in 2022 that we are now familiar with. The ethic codes for behavior analysts focuses on four core principles. These principles focus on the basis that applied behavior analysis will: Benefit others, treat others with compassion, dignity, and respect, behave with integrity, and ensure their competence.
The American Psychological Association (2017) code of ethics revolves around the ethical standards of: Resolving ethical issues, competence, human relations, privacy and confidentiality, advertising and other public statements, record keeping and fees, education and training, research and publication, assessment, therapy, and amendments to the 2002 "ethical principles of psychologists and code of conduct" in 2010 and 2016. (APA, 2002). Among these codes from both institutions, we can see clear overlap even though the BACB focuses more on applied behavior analysis while APA has a much more wide set of ethical standards. This makes sense since psychology is such a wide study with various applications.
The function of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and its role in promoting ethics in animal research include enforcing guidelines for research with animals. Some of the core ethical considerations set by the IACUC are: the "3Rs" of Russell and Burch (1959) [that] provide a framework for considering the humane use of animals" (Festing and Altman, 2002). The 3 "R"s are: "Animals should be replaced by less sentient alternatives such as invertebrates or in vitro methods whenever possible. Experimental protocols should be refined to minimize any adverse effects for each individual animal. The number of animals should be reduced to the minimum consistent with achieving the scientific objectives." (Festing and Altman, 2002).
There are a variety of ethical considerations specific to translational research. The ethical guidelines for translational research include: deception and using it only when necessary, not using deception that about research that can cause emotional or physical pain or severe distress, informing participants about any deception used, clinical priorities, being sensitive to participants from vulnerable populations, treat all participants with dignity and respect, prioritizing clinical outcomes, recognizing one's own limitations, gaining exposure to both basic and applied research, and creating a team of experts (Betz, 2024).
Other steps that researchers can take to support their ethical conduct include: continuing their education and learning in the field, this can include CEUs. Having other professionals to evaluate for any bias or errors. Taking data of the procedures in the study can help document any steps that might violate ethical considerations.