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 Diversity and Cultural Trends in Behavior Analysis |
| Saturday, May 25, 2019 |
| 10:00 AM–11:50 AM |
| Swissôtel, Lucerne Ballroom Level, Lucerne 1/2 |
| Area: PCH |
| Instruction Level: Basic |
| Chair: Daryl E Stewart (University of Kansas) |
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| LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) Cultural Competency: History, Disparity and Prevalence in Behavior Analysis |
| Domain: Theory |
| SARAH CAMPAU (May Institute) |
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| Abstract: As in other disciplines and society at large, LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) individuals have become a more visible part of the cultural landscape. By definition this includes persons who identify outside heterosexual or gender norms. Behavior analyst encounter a statistically high prevalence of individuals who fall under the LGBTQ umbrella. Individuals with autism identify outside of cis-heterosexual norms at a higher rate than persons who are neurotypical. With contemporary data this program will demonstrate not only a significant disparity in the quantity of behavior analytic LGBTQ literature compared with other practices, but also a stark lack of LGBTQ friendly literature in behavior analysis. For the optimal understanding by the audience this presentation will include basic terminology and education about the LGBTQ community. Cultural competency in sexual orientation and gender expression should be required for behavior analysts to best serve LGBTQ individuals and work to form better relationships with a community being served in large numbers. |
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| Cultural Influences on Psychotherapy Techniques |
| Domain: Theory |
| PARSLA VINTERE (CHE Senior Psycholgical Services; Elaine Kaufman Cultural Center) |
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| Abstract: Contemporary Western psychotherapy approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, utilize techniques that are influenced by Eastern philosophy to treat anxiety. The present paper looks at two influential figures in the history of psychology – Sigmund Freud, representing Western approach and Shoma Morita, representing Eastern approach. While Freud’s psychoanalysis is well known all over the world, Morita’s therapy may not be. Both Freud and Morita had similar educational and occupational backgrounds and they were contemporaries. There are similarities in their theories, but what set them apart was deeply imbedded in their cultural experience. Thus, culture is looked at as a determining factor in the development of treatment techniques. Both theories are still influencing the field of psychology. The similarities and differences in structuring treatments dealing with anxiety for the two theories will be examined and their relation to contemporary Western psychotherapy discussed. Behavioral contingency analysis is used to examine the treatment structure of Freud’s psychoanalysis, Morita therapy and ACT. |
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| History of Women in Behavior Analysis: Addressing Women’s Issues at the Association for Behavior Analysis International Conferences |
| Domain: Theory |
| DARYL E STEWART (University of Kansas), Edward K. Morris (University of Kansas), Christina Nord (University of Lethbridge) |
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| Abstract: Women’s issues in behavior analysis are widely regarded, today, as having had a resurgence (e.g., the Women in Behavior Analysis Conferences). The resurgence is important. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are the basis of a well-functioning organizations and societies -- ones that are likely to survive. However, the assertion about the resurgence lacks evidence. Our presentation offers some evidence. We present the results of a content analysis of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) conference programs between 1975 and 2018 (e.g., women’s committees, special interest groups, symposia, presentations). Given the recent evidence (e.g., 2015-present), the resurgence is real, but is not at a higher level of activism than during the first 15 years of the ABAI conferences. Next, we offer an analysis of the early and later activism – and lack thereof in between -- based on the contributions of specific individuals (e.g., Judy Favell, Elsie Pinkston) and cultural changes (e.g., the second wave of the feminist movement; the Equal Rights Amendment, the #MeToo movement). Finally, we consider how past practices might inform and be adopted selectively to advance a currently more diverse, equitable, and inclusive community of women in behavior analysis, in the ABAI organization, and in society at large. |
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| Becoming Offended and Other Things We Do To Control Other's Behavior |
| Domain: Theory |
| DERIC E. TONEY (University of Nevada, Reno) |
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| Abstract: In complex social interaction and relationships, it is common for individuals to “become offended,” hurt, or insulted by a speaker’s verbal behavior. This type of event commonly occurs across all types of relationships and can cause great distress for those involved, making it worth investigating from a behavioral perspective. To do so, there are a number of features to explore. First, an understanding of the relevant variables that allow the speaker’s verbal behavior to be responded to as if it were “offensive.” A few examples of variables that contribute to this are relationship-specific contingencies, situational variables, frequency, nonverbal behaviors, paralinguistic features, and content (Toney & Hayes, 2017). Since none of these features are unconditioned aversive stimuli, the conditioning that allows for the development of these stimulus functions should be investigated. Second, it is important to consider the function of becoming offended. Traditionally, such an analysis is overlooked as attention is primarily given to the speaker’s offensive behavior. Yet, behaviors involved in becoming offended operate within their own separate contingencies that are worth investigating. In this paper, the author will explore relevant features and issues of this type of interaction and discuss potential ways a behavior-analytic approach could benefit our understanding. |
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