Who are Behavior Analysts
Aside from the educational and supervision hours that must be obtained in order to become a behavior analyst, that’s not even counting the exam, there are other points that I wanted to discuss in my experiences with various behavior analysts. As some of you may already know, all Behavior Analysts are not the same, having different perspectives and points of views. There is no right or wrong either way, these are characteristics that make us different, more individualized. What I am trying to say, perhaps badly, is that every person (behavior analyst or not) has a different set of opinions, beliefs, values, methodologies in how they live and work and practice.
To preface this paragraph, the following examples of some behavior analysts do not apply to all that I have met. More so than not, I have worked with competent people who cooperate and collaborate with all members of the team. I do feel that it is important to discuss, however, others in the field to raise awareness and inspire discussions on the topic. In my experience, I have across BRILLIANT behavior analysts who know the research backwards and forwards and can reference numerous articles at the drop of a hat. However, when it came to applying these concepts or even rephrasing the core concepts and adapting ideas to fit more individualized people these brilliant analysts struggled. They were unable to effectively communicate beyond what they have read and studied. I have also come across behavior analysts who “know their stuff” (for lack of a better phrase), and can apply and rephrase and graph — you know — THE WHOLE SHA-BANG. The issue, I suppose for me, comes in when they are close minded to collaboration. I refer to a variety of situations when I speak of collaboration. Firstly, I have met those who believe in ABA so whole heartedly that they are completely and absolutely disagree with any medicinal interventions: that ABA can solve any problem. Do not get me wrong, I believe in ABA (or I would not be doing this) and its effectiveness, but I do not believe in closed minded in other outside possibilities in treatments. When it comes to medication (and there is a lot of opinions here; enough for its own post), I do not count it out andI do not jump to it immediately. Instead, before recommending that route (and after any physiological reasons have been ruled out), I believe medication is a last resort after a variety of interventions have been tried. Secondly, I have come across behavior analysts who believe that it is “ABA or no way”. Meaning, that there is a complete lack of willingness to collaborate with other professionals and therapists (speech, occupational, physical therapists to name few).
It is my opinion that collaboration, especially interdisciplinary collaboration is an essential element in providing the best, well-rounded program/treatment plan for anyone. When you go through a surgical procedure, you would not want the anesthesiologist to perform all aspects of your surgery would you? You would also want nurses, doctors, etc…. a TEAM APPROACH. There is more accountability, efficiency, expertise in other areas, and overall a higher probably of effectiveness.
FOR PARENTS:
In looking for a behavior analyst, especially for parents, the biggest piece of advice I can provide is to do the homework. Talk with a wide variety of behavior analysts, ask questions about more than just their qualifications, but their experiences, philosophies, and methodologies. It is vital to ensure that this person will be a good fit for not only the child/client they will be working with, but also with the family dynamic as well. As a parent, you are an important member of the team providing services to your child and you will be communicating often with providers. So, there should be a level of common ground and understanding as well as a mutual respect and trust. The behavior analyst may have the best of intentions and hopes, but if there is no trust and mutual respect, what kind of long term relationship are you setting yourself up for.
