Punishment happens, but the state of behavior analysis is changing for the better

Abstract

Behavior analysis is facing criticism based on its historical use of restrictive procedures and reliance on punishers to change behavior. A review of punishment procedures in behavior analytic literature has not been conducted since 2014; a more recent review can clarify whether the aforementioned criticism is substantiated by current research. In this review, we examined 59 studies published between 2014 and 2023 and extracted data on participant characteristics, procedural characteristics, and efficacy of procedures. We found an increase in the use of response interruption and redirection procedures, as well as more frequent evaluation of social validity, generalization, and maintenance as compared to previous decades. We also observed a decrease in functional assessment of target behaviors. Most importantly, we observed a decrease in physical forms of punishment, which may be considered more restrictive. We provide recommendations for future research, clinical practice, and advocacy.