Unicorn Ethics: Beyond the Code

Module Topics

Ethical decision-making in applied behavior analysis often extends beyond clear rule-following into complex situations requiring professional judgment, contextual analysis, and thoughtful collaboration. Participants will review the historical and professional context of ethical practice in ABA and examine common features of ambiguous ethical situations, including power imbalances, communication breakdowns, and unintended risks of harm. The session introduces the Unicorn Zones of Resolution, a practical model adapted from Bailey and Burch’s levels of ethical complexity, to help practitioners determine whether ethical concerns should be addressed independently, collaboratively, or through external reporting channels (Bailey & Burch, 2024). To support structured ethical decision-making, participants will also learn to apply the Ethical Navigation Guide, a five-step process that guides practitioners to assess ethical signals, map contextual factors, develop and implement action plans, and reflect on outcomes to strengthen future practice. Through applied examples and introduction to ethical navigation resources, attendees will develop skills to identify ethical concerns, evaluate contextual risk, and engage in values-based decision-making that prioritizes client dignity, safety, and professional integrity.