Theory & Philosophy of ABA

This course describes radical behaviorism, the underlying philosophy of behavior analysis. Basic assumptions about the nature of behavior are described from a behavior analytic viewpoint and issues with a “mentalistic” or internally driven account of behavior are explored. The basic principles of behavior will be used to interpret complex novel behavior that may seem beyond the scope of behavior analysis but is actually within our scope.
Examples of such interpretations will be provided, and students will practice interpreting behavior using the underlying philosophy. Issues related to equity, inclusion and diversity will be addressed throughout the course. This course meets the BACB’s content requirement for theory and philosophy of behavior (philosophical underpinnings) needed to sit for their national certification (BCBA) exam. Offered fall, spring, summer.