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| Applied Behavior Analysis and Positive Behavioral Support |
| Saturday, May 29, 2004 |
| 2:30 PM–3:50 PM |
| Constitution A |
| Area: DDA/AUT; Domain: Applied Research |
| Chair: James M. Johnston (Auburn University) |
| Discussant: James A. Mulick (The Ohio State University) |
| Abstract: Learning Objectives
Attendees will learn how ABA has been influenced in its evolution
Attendees will learn how PBS has been problematic in its development in relation to ABA
Attendees will learn how the problems caused by PBS should be addressed |
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| Attack of the Clones |
| RICHARD M. FOXX (Penn State Harrisburg) |
| Abstract: Positive Behavior Support evolved from the nonaversive movement and its roots can be traced to the National Institute of Health Consensus Development Conference on the Treatment of Destructive Behaviors in 1989. As a result, much of its credibility is dependent on the belief that it offers effective ”positive” options for treating severe behavior. This talk will suggest that this belief is a myth that is being sophisticatedly promulgated. Crucial to the maintenance of the myth has been blurring the distinction between problem and severe behavior to the point where behaviors previously defined as problem are now labeled severe even though the overall treatment focus has been on children with mild or moderate problems. One noteworthy ideological twist application is that unpleasant interventions such as restraint are stressed as being applied noncontingently. Despite the widespread acceptance and application of Positive Behavior Support, there is little current literature that provides empirically valid demonstrations of multi-element interventions in applied settings. The talk will also discuss the history of mass movements and how PBS qualifies as one. |
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| The Phantom Menace |
| JOHN JACOBSON (Sage College) |
| Abstract: This presentation will identify and contrast several parameters of ABA and PBS. These models will be considered with respect to whether they represent novel or conventional scientific models, differing technologies, or diverging disciplines, or in fact are merely two depictions of the same technology. Deleterious effects of bifurcation of clinical and research activities will be considered such as whether in substance ABA and PBS can be distinguished within clinical practice, the implications of altered terminology in the context of comparable or uncertain implementation of procedures, and of an alteration of professional focus from habilitative effects and increased skills and enhanced control and countercontrol by people with disabilities to heavy reliance on compensatory supports and substituted group decision-making. Particular stress will be placed on the identification of components of PBS interventions, related data indicating magnitude of problems addressed through treatment and treatment effects, and their overlap or independence from mundane contemporary ABA practice. |
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| Return of the Jedi |
| JAMES M. JOHNSTON (Auburn University) |
| Abstract: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has evolved in response to a number of influences, including the underlying basic science, applied research, the fields and settings in which practitioners work, and factors stemming from other professions and cultural influences. Positive Behavior Support (PBS) has used a variety of problematic tactics in an attempt to establish a “field” that is promoted as an alternative to ABA. These efforts have harmed ABA and now require attention by the field of Behavior Analysis. This presentation will consider some of the larger issues raised by the PBS movement. |
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