Association for Behavior Analysis International

Ableism is a global and systemic issue that impacts all fields and cultures. Ableism is the discrimination of and social prejudice against people with disabilities based on the unconscious or conscious belief that typical abilities are superior. In Applied Behavior Analysis, ableism often manifests through practices prioritizing compliance over autonomy and treating neurodivergent behaviors as deficits to be corrected. This presentation explores how ableism can be minimized in ABA by adopting a neurodiversity-affirming, assent-based approach. Drawing on the neurodiversity paradigm and emphasizing client dignity, this session will define ableism in ABA, offer strategies to recognize and counteract ableist practices, and present methods for promoting client autonomy and choice. Participants will learn strategies for honoring client agency and apply actionable steps to ensure their ABA practice fosters respect for neurodivergent identities. Through case studies and practical tools, attendees will leave with at least five strategies for minimizing ableism within applied behavior analysis and will be equipped to integrate these principles into their everyday practice, thereby fostering more ethical and inclusive ABA services.

As the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) continues to evolve, the role of technology has become increasingly central to practice. While artificial intelligence (AI) is often viewed as a tool for automation, this presentation introduces a conceptual framework for understanding AI in ABA as “augmented intelligence”, emphasizing its potential to support, rather than replace, behavior analysts. Augmented intelligence refers to AI systems designed to enhance human decision-making, enabling behavior analysts to leverage vast amounts of data and research to inform treatment planning and service delivery. This presentation will explore how AI can improve efficiency in clinical processes such as Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs), data analysis, and intervention recommendations, while allowing behavior analysts to retain control of clinical judgment. Key ethical considerations will be addressed, including maintaining professional integrity, ensuring data privacy, and managing the human-AI interaction to prevent over-reliance on technology. Practical examples will be drawn from existing AI tools used in ABA, demonstrating their ability to assist clinicians in making informed, research-backed decisions that lead to better client outcomes. By reframing AI as augmented intelligence, this presentation will provide behavior analysts with a new perspective on how to integrate technology into their practice in a way that enhances human expertise, rather than supplanting it. The goal is to promote a balanced, ethical, and effective use of AI, positioning it as a valuable tool for behavior analysts in the future of clinical practice.