Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) Communications Policy
Statement of Policy
The mission of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) is to contribute to the well-being of society by developing, enhancing, and supporting the growth and vitality of the science of behavior analysis through research, education, and practice. In all endeavors, ABAI encourages diversity, equity, and inclusion, and expects that all members will show respect and dignity in their communications with each other.
The communications policy applies to all forms of written and verbal communication, including correspondence and online communications, as well as presentations and in-person communications. The policy is designed to preserve the mission of ABAI as a scientific organization and the safety of members, non-members, and staff.
Communication is meant to stimulate respectful conversation, share information, and invite dialog, not to create unnecessary conflict. ABAI values diverse opinions but expects members to express those opinions in an appropriate manner that is not offensive, demeaning, or derogatory. ABAI strictly prohibits defamatory, abusive, profane, threatening, offensive, and illegal content and actions. All communications should be professional in nature. When in doubt, if the language would not be used or allowed in a work setting, it is likely not appropriate. Remain cognizant of how communications could potentially be perceived as offensive and/or bullying.
Individuals are solely responsible for the content of their communications. Opinions expressed are strictly those of the individual and not those of ABAI. Communications containing links to content on other websites should not be construed as an endorsement of the organizations, entities, views, or content contained therein; ABAI is not responsible for and cannot control the content of those external websites. Individuals participating in communications should understand and acknowledge that their communications might be available to the public, especially if shared virtually.
Communication Guidelines
Please observe the following guidelines:
Stay on topic. When engaging in online or in-person communication, please keep comments on topic. Communication should be relevant to the scientific community and rely on accurate, verifiable information as much as possible. Communications should not be used for commercial solicitations including solicitations for money, goods, or services for charitable purposes or private gain, unless you have obtained proper permission.
Do not bully or harass others. We welcome professional and thoughtful dialogue on issues relevant to our mission. If you disagree with another person's opinion, please keep your communication respectful and intended to promote scientific dialogue. Do not threaten, bully, or harass other users.
Refrain from using hateful speech. Be respectful of others. Communications that may be perceived as an attack on other users based on their race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or medical condition will not be tolerated. All presenters at ABAI events are expected to abide by this policy. Discriminatory and derogatory language with respect to individuals or groups based on their personal characteristics (e.g., race, gender) will not be tolerated at ABAI.
Do not use vulgar language or profanity. Although some terms might be informally accepted between friends, it is best to avoid using these types of language at all times.
Observe confidentiality laws at all times. Do not share confidential information inside or outside of the organization. This includes but is not limited to individual names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses, if the individual has not given consent. Online communication platforms are open to anyone and intended for behavior analytic practitioners, scientists, researchers, and students; they are not an appropriate place for patients to seek information. ABAI requires all member communications to omit all identifying information from historical data and images, and to comply with Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) restrictions regarding protected medical information.
Observe fair use, copyright, and disclosure laws. Always list the source of copyrighted materials and ensure you have permission to use them. This includes pictures, charts, graphs, tables, and excerpts of text. Materials that have not been authorized by the source for release should not be shared.
Be truthful. Never represent yourself in a false or misleading way. All statements must be true; all claims must be substantiated.
Violation of Communication Policy
ABAI reserves the right to take any action deemed appropriate for violations of this policy including but not limited to issuing a warning, removing content, and restricting access to group communications.
ABAI Rights
We reserve the right to update or modify this communication policy at any time and without prior notice, by posting the revised version on this site.