The key factor that differentiates applied behavior analysis from other approaches in psychology is its grounding in natural science and evidence-based practice. For this discussion, please review the assigned readings in this unit.

Please respond to the following:

• How does the approach of science differ from other approaches to gathering information about the world?
• Describe the goals of science (description, prediction, and control) that are the foundation for a scientific approach in ABA.
• Describe the philosophical assumptions or “attitudes” of science and explain why these are important as a foundation for applied behavior analysis.
• Recall your reading of the article “Practical Components for Getting the Most From a Token Economy” (Ackerman et al., 2020), and discuss whether and why the research supports the goals of science, the philosophical assumptions of science, and the seven dimensions of applied behavior analysis.

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

• Does the discussion clearly differentiate between applied behavior analysis and other approaches to understanding behavior?
• Are the most important defining characteristics of applied behavior analysis as a science described?
• Are conclusions about the scientific and philosophical grounding of the article supported by unit readings?