The Evolution of Values in the Science of Behaviour Analysis A Discussion Paper

On the 27th August at 7:30pm we were joined by Dr Aoife McTiernan and Dr Darren Bowring. Aoife and Darren will discuss their recent paper entitled “The Evolution of Values in the Science of Behaviour Analysis: A Discussion Paper” and published in the International Journal of Positive Behavioural Support. This discussion paper is a bold call to action for our behavioural analytic communities. The authors challenge us to confront the reality that a ‘valueless’ science will be rudderless and susceptible to the vagaries of veiled interests. They invite us to reconnect with the emancipatory values that founded the scientific study of behaviour.

The authors address substantive criticisms of ABA, particularly from neurodiversity advocates concerned about its historical applications. They note that analogous concerns have driven the development of Positive Behaviour Support (PBS), an explicitly value-based approach to behaviour support.

PBS, derived from behaviour analysis, aims to improve quality of life and prevent challenging behaviours through antecedent interventions, functional assessments, and collaboration. Key values include respect, empowerment, and humility.

The paper traces the evolution of ABA and PBS in the UK and Ireland, highlighting the later development of graduate ABA programmes in these regions and the influence of human rights and anti-discrimination legislation on practice. PBS has significantly shaped the training and practice of ABA in these regions, integrating values-based approaches from the outset.

Emphasising the importance of social validity, the authors argue that ABA should focus on socially significant outcomes, informed entirely by consumer opinions and collaborative practices. Historical foundational papers advocated this approach, but it has often been overlooked in practice and research.

The authors advocate for system-wide interventions that consider the broader systems in which behaviour analytic interventions are implemented. This perspective aligns entirely with PBS principles and aims to create capable environments that support overall well-being and quality of life.

Looking towards the future, the authors call for a renewed focus on integrating humanist values into ABA practice and training. They highlight the importance of compassionate care, cultural humility, and proactive, function-based interventions. The paper suggests that future behaviour analytic practice should continue evolving to align more closely with these values.

The paper underscores the need for ongoing collaboration and co-production with those supported by behavioural science to continually address concerns and improve the field. Recent research, changes in ethical codes, and position statements reflect a shift towards more values-based and consumer-informed practices, but these statements of values must be matched by processes that embed human rights in every aspect of research and practice.

The authors argue for the continued evolution of behaviour analysis to ensure it remains directed by the needs and concerns of the people it aims to support. This is an inspired and timely paper, which significantly adds to the humanist development of our science.

Thanks to the International Journal of Positive Behavioural Interventions who have provided open access to this paper.

Dr Aoife Marie McTiernan

Aoife is the Director of the MSc and PhD programmes in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and a Lecturer in Psychology specialising in Behaviour Analysis. As a Chartered Psychologist and Board Certified Behaviour Analyst – Doctoral (BCBA-D), she has extensive experience working in educational settings and disability services, delivering early and positive behaviour supports to children and adolescents with autism and intellectual disabilities. She currently serves as the president of the European Association for Behaviour Analysis.

Dr Darren Bowring

Darren is the Associate Director of Mental Health and Wellbeing for the Government of Jersey, an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Warwick, and a Positive Behaviour Support Consultant with the British Institute of Learning Disabilities. He is also a member of the United Kingdom Society for Behaviour Analysis (UK-SBA). With extensive experience as a consultant, trainer, and researcher in Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) and Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), Darren specialises in Autism, Learning Disabilities, Mental Health, SEBD, and Education services. Additionally, he serves as the Associate Editor of the International Journal of Positive Behaviour Support.