The authors present an introduction to the use of scientific methods in the study of the behavior of individual subjects across a wide range of settings. This straightforward and practical text offers in-depth coverage of every aspect of the research process - including science and the analysis of behavior, designing experiments, data collection, and graphic analysis of data - and provides practical suggestions for averting problems at each stage. Chapters include methods for presenting data at conferences and in journal articles.
This very practical, how-to text provides the beginning researcher with the basics of applied behavior analysis research methods. In 10 logical steps, this text covers all of the elements of single-subject research design and it provides practical information for designing, implementing, and evaluating studies. Using a pocketbook format, the authors provide novice researcher with a "steps-for-success" approach that is brief, to-the-point, and clearly delineated.
By the end of his long life, B. F. Skinner (1904-1990) had become one of the most influential and best known of psychologists (Gilgen, 1982; Heyduke & Fenigstein, 1984). An important feature of the approach to the study of behavior that he championed, behavior analysis, is the intensive study of individual subjects over time. This approach, which is characterized by the use of within-subject experimental designs, repeated and direct measures of behavior, and graphic analysis of data, stands in marked contrast to the research methods favored by many nonbehavioral psychologists. Skinner discussed the advantages of his approach in a number of books (e.g., Skinner, 1938, 1953, 1979), but never devoted a book to methodology. Sidman (1960) and Johnson and Pennypack (1993b) did devote books to behavior analytic research methodology. These books are of excep tionally high quality and should be read carefully by anyone interested in behavior analysis. They are sophisticated, however, and are not easy reads for most neophyte behaviorists. Introductory-level books devoted entirely to methods of applied behavior analysis (e.g., Kazdin, 1982; Barlow & Hersen, 1984) are easier to understand, but somewhat limited in coverage.
This text details the principles of behavior analysis (as well as the experimental evidence underlying the principles) and examines the factors that make behavioral principles effective.
APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS Applied Behavior Analysis: Principles and Procedures for Modifying Behavior will serve as a resource for students who plan to become behavior analysts to design and conduct interventions to change clients’ behaviors. Author, Edward P. Sarafino provides an understanding of the fundamental techniques of applied behavior analysis by presenting its concepts and procedures in a logical sequence and giving clear definitions and examples of each technique. This book will guide readers to learn: how to identify and define the behavior to be changed and how a response is determined by its antecedents and consequences, usable, practical skills by specifically stating the purpose of each technique, describing how it is carried out, and presenting guidelines and tips to maximize its effectiveness, why and how to design a program to change a behavioral deficit or excess by conducting a functional assessment and then selecting and combining techniques that can be directed at the behavior itself and its antecedents and consequences, and, to illustrate why and how to collect and analyze data. Here is what reviewers have said about Applied Behavior Analysis: Principles and Procedures for Modifying Behavior: “Overall, this textbook provides a thorough, concise, and engaging introduction to applied behavior analysis.” Rafael Bejarano, Henderson State University This textbook “… provides good, basic explanations of concepts in Applied Behavior Analysis that are easy to grasp for undergraduate students.” Lisa Gurdin, Northeastern University This textbook is, “Comprehensive. Easily accessible” and it has “ Great illustrations and examples.” Joel Kevin Thompson, University of Southern Florida To learn more about Applied Behavior Analysis: Principles and Procedures for Modifying Behavior, please visit us at www.wiley.com/college/sarafino.
AN INTRODUCTION TO BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS Explore a fascinating introductory treatment of the principles of behavior analysis written by three leading voices in the field An Introduction to Behavior Analysis delivers an engaging and comprehensive introduction to the concepts and applications for graduate students of behavior analysis. Written from the ground up to capture and hold student interest, the book keeps its focus on practical issues. The book offers readers sound analyses of Pavlovian and operant learning, reinforcement and punishment, motivation and stimulus control, language and rule-following, decision-making and clinical behavior analysis. With fully up to date empirical research references and theoretical content, An Introduction to Behavior Analysis thoroughly justifies every principle it describes with empirical support and explicitly points out where more data are required. The text encourages students to analyze their own experiences and some foundational findings in the field in a way that minimizes jargon and maximizes engagement. Readers will also benefit from the inclusion of: A clear articulation and defense of the philosophical assumptions and overarching goals of behavior analysis. A thorough description of objective data collection, experimental methods, and data analysis in the context of psychology An exploration of the core principles of behavior analysis, presented at a level comprehensible to an introductory audience A broad array of principles that cover issues as varied as language, substance-use disorders, and common psychological disorders Perfect for students taking their first course in behavior analysis or behavior modification, An Introduction to Behavior Analysis will also earn a place in the libraries of students pursuing certification through the Behavior Analysis Certification Board or taking courses in the applied psychological sciences.
Behavior Analysis and Learning, Fifth Edition is an essential textbook covering the basic principles in the field of behavior analysis and learned behaviors, as pioneered by B. F. Skinner. The textbook provides an advanced introduction to operant conditioning from a very consistent Skinnerian perspective. It covers a range of principles from basic respondent and operant conditioning through applied behavior analysis into cultural design. Elaborating on Darwinian components and biological connections with behavior, the book treats the topic from a consistent worldview of selectionism. The functional relations between the organism and the environment are described, and their application in accounting for old behavior and generating new behavior is illustrated. Expanding on concepts of past editions, the fifth edition provides updated coverage of recent literature and the latest findings. There is increased inclusion of biological and neuroscience material, as well as more data correlating behavior with neurological and genetic factors. The chapter on verbal behavior is expanded to include new research on stimulus equivalence and naming; there is also a more detailed and updated analysis of learning by imitation and its possible links to mirror neurons. In the chapter on applied behavior analysis (ABA), new emphasis is given to contingency management of addiction, applications to education, ABA and autism, and prevention and treatment of health-related problems. The material presented in this book provides the reader with the best available foundation in behavior science and is a valuable resource for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in psychology or other behavior-based disciplines. In addition, a website of supplemental resources for instructors and students makes this new edition even more accessible and student-friendly (www.psypress.com/u/pierce).
Albert J. Kearney explains the kinds of learning and reinforcement processes that form the basis of ABA programs. He then describes how the science of behavior analysis can be applied to real life problems. He looks at how behavior is assessed and various intervention techniques that are often employed with children who have special needs.
