A.2 Explain the philosophical assumptions underlying the science of behavior analysis (e.g., selectionism, determinism, empiricism, parsimony, pragmatism).

Determinism

Determinism in behavior analysis asserts that behavior is lawful and predictable, meaning it is shaped by environmental events and is not the result of random or arbitrary forces. Behavior analysts assume that behavior is influenced by antecedents (events that precede behavior) and consequences (events that follow behavior) in a cause-and-effect relationship.

Example: A behavior analyst observes that a child’s aggressive behavior increases when they are reprimanded by their teacher. This suggests a functional relationship between the reprimand (antecedent) and the increase in aggressive behavior (consequence), demonstrating the role of environmental determinants.

Empiricism

Empiricism emphasizes the importance of objective observation and systematic measurement of behavior. Behavior analysts rely on direct observation and data collection methods to gather information about behavior, which is then analyzed and used to inform decision-making.

Example: A behavior analyst uses direct observation and data collection tools, such as event recording or interval recording, to measure a child’s frequency of engaging in a specific behavior, such as hitting. The data collected empirically provides an objective basis for assessing behavior and evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.

Experimentation

Experimentation is a fundamental aspect of behavior analysis. It involves systematically manipulating variables to determine their effects on behavior. Experimental methods allow behavior analysts to establish functional relationships between environmental events and behavior.

Example: A behavior analyst designs an experiment to investigate the effects of different reinforcement schedules on a target behavior, such as increasing the frequency of a child’s homework completion. By systematically manipulating the reinforcement schedule and measuring behavior, the analyst can determine the most effective schedule for promoting the desired behavior change.

Replication

Replication involves conducting studies or experiments multiple times to verify the reliability and generalizability of findings. Replication is essential in behavior analysis to ensure that observed effects are not due to chance or unique circumstances.

Example:  A behavior analyst replicates a study that demonstrated the effectiveness of a particular intervention for reducing self-injurious behavior in individuals with autism. By replicating the study and obtaining similar results, the analyst strengthens the confidence in the intervention’s effectiveness and its applicability to different individuals or settings.

Parsimony

Parsimony, also known as the principle of simplicity, suggests that explanations should be kept as simple as possible while still accounting for the observed behavior. Behavior analysts strive to offer explanations that involve the fewest assumptions necessary to understand and predict behavior.

Example:  When explaining a child’s aggressive behavior, a behavior analyst might propose that it is influenced by a lack of social skills and frustration due to communication difficulties, rather than invoking complex or speculative explanations involving internal mental states.

Philosophical Doubt

Philosophical doubt is a critical attitude that encourages behavior analysts to question and examine the validity of existing explanations and assumptions. It involves a healthy skepticism and a commitment to basing conclusions on empirical evidence.

Example:  A behavior analyst critically evaluates a widely held belief that a child’s tantrums are solely due to attention-seeking. By applying philosophical doubt, the analyst examines alternative explanations, such as escape from demands or sensory sensitivities, and conducts a thorough functional analysis to determine the true function of the behavior.

These philosophical assumptions provide a solid foundation for the science of behavior analysis. They promote objectivity, systematic observation, experimentation, replication, simplicity, and critical thinking, leading to evidence-based practices and a better understanding of behavior and its environmental determinants.