Applied Behavior Analysis
The psychology major track in applied behavior analysis (ABA) prepares students who have strong interest in children's services for graduate school and/or careers in human services, specifically clinical psychology, education and speech, research and public policy, with particular concentration in developmental disabilities, learning disabilities and measurement/evaluation.
Applied behavior analysis is a specific conceptual and methodological approach for educational and treatment intervention that historically derives primarily from research in psychology on basic learning processes. Applied behavior analysis refers to the precise analysis of behavior and learning patterns and the conditions that serve to elicit and maintain these behaviors and patterns.
In addition to drawing upon work in experimental psychology, applied behavior analysis encompasses research from the fields of:
- clinical psychology,
- developmental psychology,
- educational psychology and
- neuropsychology.
Further, applied behavior analysis must also be discussed within the context of the particular characteristics of the individual receiving services, as well as family, social and political contexts. The choice of setting, structure and goals is highly dependent upon the diagnostic issues surrounding the individual, whether that be autism vs. emotional disturbance vs. learning disability, etc.
Strong emphasis is placed upon knowledge of basic and applied research, professional ethics and practical skills.
Admission to the track in applied behavior analysis is open only to students who are enrolled in or who have completed PSYC 492, Assessment, Intervention and Evaluation I. To declare this track, students must meet with an academic adviser in the Psychology Department.
For more information on the Psychology: ABA major, please contact Dr. Raymond Romanczyk at the Institute for Child Development, 777-2829.
Do you want learn more about the specific major requirements? Check out the psychology ABA major worksheet (.pdf, 112.6kb).
