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| Special Edition Spotlight: Behavior Analysts' Role in Public Policy Advocacy Part I |
| Saturday, May 24, 2025 |
| 10:00 AM–11:50 AM |
| Convention Center, Street Level, 158 AB |
| Area: CSS/PCH; Domain: Service Delivery |
| Chair: David Legaspi (The Culturo-Behavior Science Innovation Network; Utah State University) |
| Discussant: Berenice de la Cruz (Texas A&M University-San Antonio) |
| CE Instructor: David Legaspi, M.S. |
| Abstract: Behavior analysts engaged in public policy advocacy aim to improve socially significant behaviors in the populations they serve. While most behavior analysts lack formal training in advocacy, many recognize the influence of policies at all levels on the delivery of applied behavior analytic (ABA) services. Across the globe, behavior analysts are educating legislators on how behavior analytic solutions can address societal challenges. Integrating behavior analytic perspectives into policy promotes best practices and creates more supportive environments. This symposium highlights four contributions from around the world. The first presentation reviews the history and challenges of behavior analysis in 15 Latin American countries, focusing on regulatory frameworks and professional associations. The second explores the rapid growth of behavior analysis in Australia, culminating in a national regulatory system and offering lessons for other countries. The third discusses a state initiative to align quality assurance for behavior planning with best practices, providing tools for policy-to-practice alignment. The final presentation examines legislative efforts in Nevada to regulate behavior analysis since 2009, sharing insights for professionals involved in policy development. These contributions demonstrate the essential role of behavior analysts in shaping policies that improve societal well-being and strengthen the profession. |
| Instruction Level: Intermediate |
| Keyword(s): advocacy, public policy, regulation, service capacity |
| Target Audience: Intermediate. Attendees may need to understand the basics of their BACB codes, the ethics behind practicing ABA, and the state at which their state/country allows this practice. Further, it may be helpful for people to coming with some understanding of why it is important for policy and behavior analysis to be intertwined, but this knowledge is not necessary. So, foundational knowledge in behavior analytic concepts, principles, and theory would be helpful. |
Learning Objectives: 1. At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to state how local, state, and provincial advocacy affect national and macro level issues.
2. At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to describe how to begin public policy initiatives.
3. At the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to provide at least two examples of how to effectively advocate. |
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| Regulation of Behavior Analysis in 15 Countries of Latin America: Assessing the Challenges and Opportunities for Implementation of the Science |
| VARSOVIA HERNANDEZ ESLAVA (Universidad Veracruzana), Mariana De Los Santos (Instituto de Investigaciones Psicológicas, Universidad Veracruzana), Miguel Avila (Essential for Living), Estefania Carla Alarcon Moya (Florida Institute of Technology; CeABA Chile), Carola Scolari (Casita ABA, Buenos Aires, Argentina) |
| Abstract: Although behavior analysis is an emerging field of practice worldwide, it has a rich history in Latin America. Nonetheless, adapting to the cultural and structural contexts of each country has presented many challenges, resulting in differences in the quality and scope of practice. Among these challenges is the regulation of behavior analysis as a distinct profession, which affects professionals seeking to establish and expand their practice. Despite these challenges, several advancements have been made in different areas: the establishment of professional associations, collaborative work among groups, clients, and universities. In this presentation, we will provide an overview of the situation in 15 Latin American countries, examining each country's regulations, laws, and coverage, and identifying the challenges and opportunities for implementing and enforcing behavior analysis practices. By identifying these challenges and opportunities, as well as the broader behavior analyst community in Latin America, we aim to establish a robust and sustainable framework for the regulation of behavior analysis. |
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| Regulation Down Under |
| ALAYNA T. HABERLIN (Paperbark Solutions), Michelle A. Furminger (Leaps Ahead Early Intervention), Alexandra Brown (Bright Eyes Early Intervention & ABA Australia), Claire Connolly (Association for Behaviour Analysis Australia
) |
| Abstract: Regulation is one way of helping to ensure public safety of a practicing profession. In the past, the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) was responsible for the certification of all behaviour analysts worldwide. Now, with the world’s growth and transformation, countries require their own regulatory bodies to address the many specific needs of their behaviour analysts. In Australia, the field of behaviour analysis and the number of practicing behaviour analysts have seen significant growth in the past recent decade. This presentation will discuss into the initiatives that are taken by behaviour analysts in Australia to create a membership body and then, in 2022, establish a regulatory system at the national level. This presentation’s discussion will cover the regulation history of the Australian allied health field, in particular the professional self-regulation. Finally, the presentation will conclude with suggestions for other countries to create their own system of regulation for behaviour analysts. |
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| The Development of a Behavior Plan Quality Assurance Instrument in a Publicly Funded System of Care |
| ARTHUR N HABEL (Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services), Sharon Bonaventura (Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services
), Neil Deochand (University of Cincinnati) |
| Abstract: This presentation highlights the integration of quality assurance in behavior planning by aligning the quality measures with governing policies that reflect best practice standards. Using a state government example, we demonstrate how practice guidelines were developed for delivering focused behavioral services within a home and community-based waiver system. An overview of the existing quality assurance instruments for behavior plans is provided, along with the introduction of a unique quality review tool featuring several automated functions designed to assess adherence to these guidelines. The presentation offers key considerations for professionals interested in aligning policy with practice and discusses how behavior analysts can effectively participate in policy development and quality assurance. Practical suggestions for engaging behavior analysts in these processes are also explored, aiming to strengthen service delivery and promote best practices. This presentation serves as a resource for those interested in the intersection of behavioral services, policy, and quality assurance systems. |
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| Public Policy, Legislation, and Licensure in Nevada: Lessons Learned |
| BRIGHID H. FRONAPFEL (University of Nevada, Reno) |
| Abstract: In recent years, behavior analysts have become increasingly involved in the public policy efforts to protect the profession and its consumers at both state and national levels. In Nevada, this began with the passage of Nevada Assembly Bill 162 in 2009, which regulated the insurance coverage for autism spectrum disorder. Subsequently, legislation was enacted to regulate the practice of behavior analysis, with further amendments made in multiple legislative sessions. This paper reflects on key lessons learned throughout Nevada’s ongoing licensing and regulatory process, offering a resource for behavior analysts engaged in public policy efforts. By examining Nevada’s experience, the paper provides valuable insights for those involved in legislative work, aiming to guide behavior analysts as they navigate policy-making and regulatory challenges. The lessons learned from this endeavor can help inform future advocacy efforts to ensure that professional standards and consumer protections continue to evolve within the field of behavior analysis. |
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