Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a set of skills used in the assessment and treatment of individuals with a variety of behavioral problems and developmental delays, including autism spectrum disorders. Students in this 45-hour course will explore the concepts and principles of Applied Behavior Analysis and gain an understanding of its applications in the treatment of behavior problems. Students will apply these concepts and principles to understand data-based decision making using a functional behavioral assessment approach with the ultimate goal of creating efficacious intervention procedures. (Note: Interventions to be covered in a future class). Techniques in observation, use of reinforcement, and repeated measures are explored.

With a focus on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's (BACB's) Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts, this 45 instructional hour course reviews responsible conduct of behavior analysts, ethical responsibilities to clients and their welfare, and ethical responsibilities to other individuals (e.g., colleagues) and the BACB. In addition, professional and legal issues involved in providing services in different contexts and with different client groups will be examined. This course meets the BCBA® requirements for 45 instructional hours and covers the BACB® Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts as well as other relevant ethical codes. (Prerequisite(s): PSYC 6731.)

With a focus on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's (BACB's) Fourth Edition Task List, this 45 instructional hour course covers the basic principles of behavioral assessment and applied behavior analysis. Course participants will explore fundamental techniques leading to the implementation of behavioral procedures and behavioral programs. More specifically, instruction focuses on conducting functional assessments and functional analyses; developing intervention procedures based on the outcome of these assessments and analyses; implementing these procedures; and data-based decision-making. (Prerequisite(s): PSYC 6731 and PSYC 6733.)

This course covers a variety of methods for data collection, measurement data collection, data analysis, and experimental designs that are common to applied behavior analysis. In addition to the theoretical background for single subject research, this course will also emphasize practical applications of research methods from baseline measurement to treatment evaluation. Advantages and limitations of various single subject research methods will be examined. Students will also design a small-n research study based on a research question developed from the applied behavior analysis literature. In addition, they will critically evaluate research studies for the appropriate research design and methodology. (Prerequisite(s): PSYC 6731, PSYC 6733, and PSYC 6734.)

This course will extend students' knowledge of operationalizing behavior, behavioral assessment, developing interventions, functional analysis/assessment, and social validity concerns through the utilization of applied behavior analysis methodologies. Emphasis will be placed on the relationship between valid assessment data and socially relevant interventions. Students will also examine case management skills and supervision strategies. (Prerequisite(s): PSYC 6731, PSYC 6733, PSYC 6734, and PSYC 6735.)

Students in this course explore the cultural components, research, and theory of cross-cultural psychology. In addition to the previously listed goals, students focus on the impact that culture has on the field of psychology around the world. The scope of this course is broad, with the core theme being cross-cultural psychology (focusing on cultures representing different parts of the world) and comparing cultural influence on human psychology. Many of the topics addressed are related to human development. Additionally, interactions among culture and social behaviors, health, mental health, and mental illnesses are emphasized throughout the duration of this course.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with widely varying symptomatology that affects 1 in 68 children. It is also one of the primary client groups with whom behavior analysts provide services. Therefore, this course includes discussion of theory, research, and intervention in ASD. Topics include the history of ASD, diagnostic issues, and treatment of autism. The emphasis is on current approaches to evidence-based intervention. Research on identification and intervention of all aspects of ASD is also included. In addition to direct clinical work, behavior analysts supervise others in the implementation of behavior analytic programming. This course introduces students to supervising others in accordance with best practice guidelines. (Prerequisite(s): PSYC 6731, PSYC 6733, PSYC 6734, PSYC 6735, and PSYC 6736.)

Students are provided with the opportunity to synthesize knowledge and skills acquired throughout their program into a practical project designed to promote positive social change in a capstone project. During this course, students work on a capstone project in which they complete a major integrative paper on a topic related to their specialization, incorporating theoretical and practical knowledge as well as social scientific research skills acquired throughout the program. The instructor may approve other capstone projects presented by students.