Behavior management approach
ethical dillema
Ethics are fundamental to any profession. In this Discussion, you will explore one of the greatest ethical dilemmas faced in behavior analysis—the use of aversives in the treatment of children engaging in self-injurious behavior (SIB). While there is research to support the efficacy of aversive treatment with some children with SIBs, some states outlaw their use, and many question whether it is ever an ethical approach.
To prepare:
Self-injurious behavior (SIB) occurs most frequently among persons with severe intellectual disability (ID) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Please read the following scenario:
You are working as a behavior analyst and are referred a seven-year-old boy with ASD (Level 3 severity), who is engaging in repetitive head banging to the point where he has required medical treatment.
Post by Day 3: Explain whether you believe aversives should be used in the treatment of SIB. Justify your rationale by explaining ethical issues regarding the use of a behavior management approach that includes aversives. Cite specific aspects of ethical codes (e.g., ABAI, APA) in justifying your conclusion as to the use of aversives in the treatment of SIB.