Exploring the Foundations of Applied Behavior Analysis

Joey 's program will be based in Applied Behavior Analysis which was first introduced in 1913, when John Watson started a movement towards behaviorism with his article “Psychology as the Behaviorist Views It” (Miltenberger, 2012). Based on Pavlov 's observations of classical conditioning, Watson suggested that human behavior could also be explained by the same means and that the process of classical conditioning was proper subject matter for psychology. He believed all human behavior were responses to external stimuli and environmental events (Miltenberger, 2012). B. F. Skinner took Watson 's theory of classical conditioning further to include operant conditioning. The highlight of Skinner 's theory is identifying what a behavior achieves through observing the behavior. It is only after the function of behavior is identified that we can alter the consequences to increase the probability of the desired behavior 's occurrence (Miltenberger, 2012). In operant conditioning behavior is changed through the manipulation of contingencies or the use of reinforcement or punishment after the desired or undesired response occurs (Miltenberger, 2012). Skinner was able to prove through his

Assistive technology can be utilized in Joey 's program in the way of recording behaviors, creating data sheets, completion of evaluations, reinforcing activities, and as an instructional tool. The potential for communications between staff of family members are increased and with it changes to Joey 's program can be made more efficiently. However, it also brings a potential for breaches of privacy. The professional who utilizes these modes of documentation and communication need to adhere to a responsibility to protect the safety, rights, and privacy of their clients through staying up to date on encryption programs (Murphy & Dillon,