Behavior Analysis at a Macro Level: The Case for Behavior Analysts in Public Policy Work

Abstract

Despite some early starts, such as Seekins and Fawcett’s, The Behavior Analyst, 9, 35–45, (1986) description of the stages of public policy making and the ABAI task force on public policy headed by Fawcett et al, The Behavior Analyst, 11, 11–25, (1988), little progress has been made to bring the field of behavior analysis up to the standards of other professions (e.g., pediatrics) in the area of advocacy. In this article we will use experiences in advocating for the profession of behavior analysis in the state of New York to encourage behavior analysts to become involved in advocacy in their state (locally, regionally, state-wide). Further, we suggest that the experiences and observations of professionals who are experts at advocating on a national level (e.g., pediatricians) may be important in encouraging behavior analysts to establish a national advocacy platform. In addition, this article will attempt to make the case as to why it is critical that behavior analysts seek and adopt leadership positions municipally, at the state level, nationally, and even internationally, in the area of advocacy. Finally, we will suggest that there is a need to integrate advocacy into the training and daily activity of behavior analysts and why the field might now be ready for this shift, as we stand on the shoulders of giants.