| Abstract: The Latinx population is one of the fastest growing communities within the United States. It is expected that by 2045, the Latinx population will grow up to 24.6% (Frey, 2018). The BACB (2024) has also reported on the growing representation of Latinx ABA professionals with 24.8% of current credentialed providers (RBT, BCaBA, BCBA, BCBA-D) identifying as Hispanic/Latinx. Professionals not only have an ethical obligation to promote cultural responsiveness and diversity (BACB, 2020, 2021), but fostering cultural awareness directly promotes best clinical outcomes for the children and families we serve, while building rapport with the family most effectively. The purpose of this panel is for applied practitioners to describe their personal experiences focusing on the cultural variables specific to the Latinx community such as language identity, personalism, and familism (Baires, et al., 2023). The contributions and insights of Latinx professionals can positively impact ABA, supporting it to become more inclusive by integrating cultural values and competence. By doing so, the field enhances its ability to serve a wider range of clients in an efficient and ethical manner. Audience members will leave with strategies and recommendations (Rosaleon, et al., 2023) to best serve Latinx families as well as a better understanding of the barriers and cultural values they may face(Castro-Hostetler, et al., 2022). |
Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the Demographic Shifts in the U.S. and ABA Field: Describe the growth of the Latinx population in the United States and the increasing representation of Latinx professionals in ABA.
2. 2. Identify Ethical Obligations for Cultural Responsiveness: Explain the ethical responsibilities of ABA professionals to promote cultural responsiveness and diversity, according to BACB guidelines.
3. Explore Cultural Variables Impacting Latinx Families: Recognize specific cultural factors, such as language identity, personalism, and familism, that influence interactions with Latinx families in a clinical context.
4. Apply Strategies for Effective Engagement: Learn strategies and recommendations to enhance service delivery to Latinx families, promoting rapport-building and effective therapeutic outcomes.
5. Address Barriers and Foster Inclusion in ABA Practice: Identify common barriers Latinx families may face and explore ways to integrate cultural awareness and competence in ABA to improve inclusivity and ethical service delivery. |