ETHICS

Michael is a BCBA that has worked with a family for over (5) years. Recently, his learner has entered adolescence and he has started to exhibit behaviors best categorized as “hyperactivity”. The family read about Omega-3 supplements and started an aggressive, but medically safe dosage schedule. This regimen requires the vitamin be given after school at the clinic. The clinic currently has a medication administration protocol, but Michael is concerned with the BACB code and non-supported interventions. Should Michael provide the supplement?

Full Answer Section

      In this case, Michael may be able to justify providing the Omega-3 supplement to his learner by arguing that it is a non-medical intervention. Omega-3 supplements are widely considered to be safe and effective, and they are not regulated by the FDA. Additionally, Michael is not providing the supplement as a medical treatment for the learner's hyperactivity. Instead, he is providing it as a nutritional supplement that may support the learner's overall health and well-being. Of course, it is important for Michael to discuss this with the learner's physician and family before making a decision. He should also be familiar with the BACB Ethics Code and the latest research on Omega-3 supplements. If Michael decides to provide the Omega-3 supplement to his learner, he should do so in a safe and ethical manner. He should follow the clinic's medication administration protocol and ensure that the learner's family is informed of all potential risks and benefits. Here are some additional things Michael should consider:
  • The learner's age and developmental level. Some children may be more able to consent to taking supplements than others.
  • The learner's other medical conditions. It is important to make sure that the Omega-3 supplement will not interact with any other medications the learner is taking.
  • The learner's family's preferences. Michael should respect the learner's family's decision about whether or not to give the learner the supplement.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to provide the Omega-3 supplement to his learner is up to Michael's professional judgment. He should weigh all of the factors involved and make the decision that he believes is in the best interests of his learner.  

Sample Answer

     

Whether or not Michael should provide the Omega-3 supplement to his learner is a complex question with no easy answer. On the one hand, he is a BCBA and is therefore bound by the BACB Ethics Code. On the other hand, he has a duty to his learner and to the learner's family to provide the best possible care.

The BACB Ethics Code states that BCBAs should not provide medical advice or treatment. However, the code also states that BCBAs should collaborate with other professionals, such as physicians and nurses, to provide comprehensive services to their learners.