The experimental analysis of behavior (EAB) is the basic science of this field and has over many decades accumulated a substantial and well-respected research literature.
Examples of these applications include: building the skills and achievements of children in school settings; enhancing the development, abilities, and choices of children and adults with different kinds of disabilities; and augmenting the performance and satisfaction of employees in organizations and businesses.As the above suggests, behavior analysis is based on the principles of operant and respondent conditioning.
[4] For example, a behavior analyst working in the hospital setting might design a token economy, a form of contingency management.
He may desire to meet his ethical obligation to make the program habilitative and in the clients' best long-term interest.
[5] In addition, failure on the part of a behavior analyst to adequately supervise his or her workers could lead to abuse.
[6] Finally, misrepresentations of the field and historical problems between academics has led to frequent calls to professionalize behavior analysis.
[13] BACB and QABA are a private organizations without governmental powers to regulate behavior analytic practice.
While the BACB and QABA certifications means that candidates have satisfied entry-level requirements in behavior analytic training, certificants may require a government license for independent practice when treating behavioral health or medical problems.
Unlicensed certificants who provide behavior analytic training for educational or optimal performance purposes do not require licensed supervision.
Where the government does not regulate the treatment of medical or psychological disorders certificants should practice in accord with the laws of their state, province, or country.
In February 2008, Indiana, Arizona, Massachusetts, Vermont, Oklahoma and other states now have legislation pending to create licensure for behavior analysts.