What must RBTs avoid to maintain professional boundaries?

Maintaining professional boundaries is crucial for Registered Behavior Technicians to ensure ethical and effective practice. Engaging in dual relationships creates a conflict of interest and can compromise the RBT's objectivity and professionalism. Dual relationships occur when an RBT has multiple roles with the same individual, whether professional, personal, or social, which can lead to biased decision-making or favoritism. This can erode trust between the client and the RBT, and it may also impact the quality of care and the effectiveness of the interventions being implemented.

In contrast, setting clear expectations, maintaining confidentiality, and collaborating with caregivers are all practices that support professional boundaries rather than compromise them. Clear expectations establish a framework for the RBT-client relationship, while confidentiality protects the client's privacy and encourages open communication. Collaborating with caregivers enhances support for the client by incorporating valuable insights and reinforcing skills learned in therapy sessions. Thus, avoiding dual relationships is essential for RBTs to uphold ethical standards and ensure effective service delivery.