RBT Study Guide Unit F: Professional Conduct & Scope of Practice
Master professional standards, ethical guidelines, and scope of practice requirements essential for effective and responsible RBT service delivery.
F1. Describe the Role of the RBT in Service Delivery
An RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) plays a vital role in implementing behavior-analytic services under the close supervision of a BCBA or BCaBA. The RBT's role focuses on direct implementation, not on designing or modifying behavior plans.
Key Responsibilities
RBT Role Distribution
F2. Respond Appropriately to Feedback and Maintain or Improve Performance
Supervision and feedback are crucial for professional growth. RBTs should be open-minded, non-defensive, and action-oriented when receiving feedback.
Steps for Responding to Feedback
Listen actively
Pay attention and avoid defensive responses
Clarify expectations
Ask questions to ensure understanding
Apply corrections
Implement changes in the next session
Follow up
Report progress to supervisor
📝 Example Scenario
Situation: Your supervisor notices inconsistent data collection.
Response: Listen actively → Clarify expectations → Apply corrections in the next session → Follow up with supervisor
F3. Communicate with Stakeholders as Authorized
Communication must remain professional, respectful, and within your role. Stakeholders include parents, teachers, caregivers, and other professionals.
Communication Guidelines
Professional Standards & Ethics
F4. Maintain Professional Boundaries
RBTs must avoid relationships or interactions that may blur professional lines.
Do
- • Be friendly, but not personal
- • Respect time, privacy, and professionalism
- • Maintain therapeutic relationships
Don't
- • Accept gifts or favors
- • Discuss personal life or emotions with clients
- • Engage in dual relationships
F5. Maintain Client Dignity
Every client must be treated with respect, compassion, and empathy. Dignity means helping clients gain independence and self-confidence.
Language Example
F6. Follow the BACB RBT Ethics Code (2.0)
The Ethics Code guides all RBT actions. It ensures that clients receive ethical and effective treatment.
Integrity
Always tell the truth and stay honest
Example: Report data accurately even when mistakes occur
Responsibility
Follow supervision and report issues
Example: Notify supervisor of safety concerns immediately
Confidentiality
Protect all client information
Example: Use initials instead of names in reports
Additional Professional Requirements
F7. Scope of Competence
RBTs must only perform tasks they are trained and supervised for.
Example: You cannot create new behavior plans — only your BCBA can.
F8. Data Confidentiality
Accurate and confidential documentation is mandatory in ABA.
• Store data in secure systems
• Use client initials or codes
F9. Professional Development
ABA is an evolving science. Engage in ongoing learning.
• Attend supervision regularly
• Participate in ABA conferences or webinars
F10. Cultural Competence
Respect cultural, linguistic, and personal differences.
• Respect: Honor diverse backgrounds and beliefs
• Awareness: Understand cultural differences
Professional Conduct Summary
| CORE AREA | FOCUS | EXAMPLE |
|---|---|---|
| Professionalism | Maintain ethics & respect | Follow RBT Code |
| Boundaries | Avoid dual relationships | No gifts from clients |
| Communication | Data-based updates | Report to BCBA |
| Dignity | Respect client rights | Use positive language |
| Development | Learn & improve | Attend training |
Test Your Professional Conduct Knowledge
Practice professional conduct and scope of practice concepts with targeted quiz questions.