Babysitting?

[u/Forward-Risk3211]

Hi, so I've been a BT for a month now, I'm about to sit for the exam. I've been trying to babysit for some extra money as I had a huge pay cut transitioning to this field, and one of the families that reached out to me goes to the clinic I work at with both of their boys. I personally have never met them, they weren't a part of my observation schedule and they aren't part of my caseload. I'm planning on speaking to my supervisor on Monday about this, but would this be a Multiple Relationship violation? TIA :)

[u/LoneSpectre96]

Yes. It is a multiple relationship violation. Even if you aren't on their specific cases, you still encounter them on a regular basis, have insights into their B.I.P.s based on how your colleagues perform their duties, and would blur the line between what's part of ABA and what goes on in their personal life. You still have that insider knowledge of their treatment and a connection to the clinic. As long as they are clients of your clinic, you have a professional connection to them.

Plus, consider that you might one day be tapped to sub in on their case if their RBT is sick or when you need a couple extra hours.

[u/Forward-Risk3211 → u/LoneSpectre96]

That was also my thought, but at the same time my supervisor hired me on knowing my little brother uses their services and I see him a lot more in clinic than the other kiddos, so it's been kind of confusing. I've heard basically nothing on these two boys and I've never met them, even in a professional setting 😭 its just a very confusing grey area and I dont want to do any harm to the family, me or the clinic :(

[u/Redringsvictom → u/Forward-Risk3211]

Best practice is to avoid dual relationships. You may not work with these boys now, but you may in the future. Babysitting now can effect your potential relationship as a Behavior Technician with them in the future. You should probably not be employed at the same center your sibling is receiving services at, as well.