Association for Behavior Analysis International

The Association for Behavior Analysis International® (ABAI) is a nonprofit membership organization with the mission to contribute to the well-being of society by developing, enhancing, and supporting the growth and vitality of the science of behavior analysis through research, education, and practice.

Search

51st Annual Convention; Washington DC; 2025

Event Details


Previous Page

 

Paper Session #433
Consultants, Not Subject Matter Experts: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)’s Role in Law Enforcement Training
Monday, May 26, 2025
3:00 PM–3:20 PM
Convention Center, Street Level, 156
Area: CSS
Instruction Level: Basic
Chair: Dayna Beddick (University of West Florida)
 

Consultants, Not Subject Matter Experts: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)’s Role in Law Enforcement Training

Domain: Basic Research
LEASHA BARRY (University of West Florida), Christopher Hinnant (University of West Florida Police Department), Jerry Charvat (University of West Florida)
 
Abstract:

Law enforcement training in the United States requires a more unified and effective approach to address inconsistencies in current practices. This presentation emphasizes the role of behavior analysts as consultants, working alongside law enforcement to develop more tailored, interactive training methods that respect the officers' expertise. This study used action research to explore how Behavior Skills Training (BST) enhanced traditional lecture methods in law enforcement's use-of-force curriculum. Experiential learning rooted in applied behavior analysis and immersive simulation technology showed significant improvements in officers' verbal behavior, performance accuracy, and social validity. The findings underscore the importance of continuous, situation-specific practice to sustain skill acquisition and performance. This research highlighted the essential role that collaborative efforts between behavior analysis and law enforcement disciplines play in creating humane, cost-effective, and realistic training environments designed to improve safety and effectiveness for both officers and the communities they serve. This study also serves as a case for including qualitative insights to capture the rich experiences of trainees, providing a deeper understanding of their learning needs and contextual challenges.

 
 

BACK TO THE TOP

 

Back to Top
ValidatorError
  
Modifed by Eddie Soh
DONATE
{"isActive":false}