Clinical Behavior Analysis: Unifying the Behavioral Sciences

Instructor: Angela Coreil, PhD (Learn more about this speaker.)
CEU(s) Available: 1.0 .0 ACE Event CEUs for BCBAs through Behavior-Behavior.org, Provider # OP-22-0422

Abstract: Early in the history of behavior analysis, Skinner (1948;1953;1957) and Ferster (1972) considered the context and contingencies that might drive behaviors considered “mental illness.” They understood that simply recognizing environmental conditions controlling behavior does not always result in successful modification of behavior. Clinical Behavior Analysis (CBA) is the use of behavior analytic methodology to conceptualize and intervene upon behaviors frequently considered “mental illness.” CBA’s development was largely stalled until the turn of the century, as cognitive-behavioral interventions took hold. In recent years, Relational Frame Theory (RFT) and the implications of rule-governed behavior have allowed the subspecialty of Clinical Behavior Analysis to take root (Dougher, 2000). CBA offers the behavior analyst ways to conceptualize that private events are behavior to be explained, opposed to the cause of behavior and that the “mental illness”is not solely causing the unusual behavior.  Additionally, CBA may offer psychology a way of unifying traditions, through behavioral approaches to case formulation and intervention, and returning to its roots within behavior analysis.

Learning Objectives:
1. Identify a contingency leading to the division between “mental health” care and traditional behavior analysis.
2. Define Clinical Behavior Analysis.
3. List one reason for it would be to the advantage of our sciences to unify.

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