Current Issues and Future Directions in Applied Behavior Analysis

Current Issues and Future Directions in Applied Behavior Analysis

In recent years and, perhaps with growing voices, many researchers, practitioners, and participants have aired concerns and criticisms about some cultural and practice issues central to applied behavior analysis. Be sure you have reviewed the readings in this unit, as they will provide information on some of these concerns, identify areas for further critical exploration, and suggest paths to correction in these areas.

Please respond to the following:

• Name and describe three concerns or criticisms of applied behavior analysis raised in this week’s readings.
• What are some of the reasons cited that these issues are problematic for the field of applied behavior analysis?
• Based on your readings, what steps for development might, in the future, help to alleviate these concerns and help to move applied behavior analysis closer to cultural competency, cultural responsiveness, and diversity?

Review two of your classmates’ responses, using the following ideas as a guide and asking follow-up questions that promote further analysis and development:

• Is there adequate justification for the criticisms described?
• Do the areas of concern need to be addressed? Why or why not?
• Are there signs of progress in addressing some concerns surrounding practice in applied behavior analysis?