Colonial Research Practices in the Science of Applied Behavior Analysis

his program, when attended live in its entirety, offers 1.0 BCBA CEU.

The science of Applied Behavior Analysis is driven by a steadfast orientation toward the enhancement of human life and the amelioration of suffering. An examination of our research practices is critical because the researcher’s main responsibility is the protection of human research subjects. However, inherent tensions between the scientific agenda of the academy and the use of vulnerable human research subjects, establishes competing contingencies which threaten equality and collaboration.

It is important to examine to what extent applied behavior analytic research has been reflective of 1) the applied spirit of the science as described by Baer et al. (1968), 2) the ethical principles for behavioral research involving human subjects as outlined in the Belmont Report, and 3) the collaborative versus colonial research practices as described by Fawcett (1991). Thoughtful recommendations on research methodologies are presented to promote the progression of the science through the neutralization of power imbalances and diffusion of power. These methods are rooted in collaboration and cultural humility.

1. At the completion of the training the audience members will identify the relationship between social justice and the applied dimension of applied behavior analysis.
2. At the completion of the training the audience members will identify human rights trends within the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis.
3. At the completion of the training the audience members will identify challenges related to coloniality within applied behavior analysis.