Ep39 Separating the Science from the Application with Nicholas A. Maio-Aether (Ethics)

“‘ABA’ -- You keep using this term. I do not think it means what you think it means.”

While many practicing in the field of behavior analysis would like to believe the general populace has an accurate understanding of the science, it can’t be ignore that quite the opposite is true. Spend a few minutes googling “ABA” and one can find there is a plethora of misinformation and misunderstandings about the application of behavior analysis. And while the first reaction may be defensive, it’s worth taking a breath, a pause, and listening to the concerns and statements. Research and applications are just as susceptible to reinforcement as the humans involved in those systems. But! There is still a light at the end of a narrowly closing tunnel!

In this LIVE talk we’re meeting with Nicholas (he/they), MAMFT, MSPSY, LBA, CSC, and BCBA to unpack how applied behavior analysis started, how systems and contingencies have shaped the field into what it is now, and what can be done to regain trust in the science. He’ll also discuss how he implements some creative solutions to support the complex needs of the individuals he works with, while still practicing in the parameters of the science.

Learning Objectives:

1. Review the history of (applied) behavior analysis and describe the critical variables that differentiate behavior analysis as a science compared to what the general population considers “ABA”.

2. Describe the impact and barriers that these changes in perception/understanding/interpretation have generated on the systems and cultures neurodivergent individuals have to navigate including insurance and interventions/treatment.

3. Provide examples of creative interventions to help teach new and complex skills while still following the seven dimensions of behavior analysis.

Take-Aways: You're bite-sized educational noms:

- Skinner founded the science of behavior analysis in the 1940s. The applied side of behavior analysis refers to the various applications of the science. The science remains the same, though the applications may look different. Consider working in organizations, government systems, animal training, classroom management. All of these utilize the science of behavior analysis, whether or not it is implicit; the principles are underlying. ABA should not be synonymous to only working with autism or other individuals with disabilities.

- There is a lot of discussion about the harm that “ABA” has caused and it is an important conversation to have, even if it’s difficult. Listening to other’s perceptions and experiences is valuable knowledge for the field going forward. How is it being presented, what information is being disseminated and what is happening outside of our echo chamber.

- Nicholas discusses how he has been overlaying the dimensions of behavior to teaching social skills while playing Dungeons and Dragons. There are so many methodologies and technologies available that one can put through their behavior analytic lens! Nicholas has found that this method provides an environment where his clients have freedom of choice, can provide and withdraw consent in safe environment, and still have fun and learn about themselves and others.

Support: Metro Trans Umbrella Group https://www.stlmetrotrans.org/

Worth 1.5 Learning, 1.5 Ethics CEUs

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