New Book Explores Multiculturalism and Diversity in the Field of Applied Behavior Analysis  

Brian Conners, Ph.D., BCBA, and Shawn T. Cappell, M.S., BCBA, LBA,  of the Applied Behavior Analysis program of the College of Education and Human Services, have written a new textbook on the important topic of diversity and multiculturalism in the field of behavior analysis. Dr. Conners, who is a senior faculty associate in the Department of Professional Psychology and Family Therapy, believes that the book will help behavior analysts better understand cultural norms and the values of their clients. It offers ABA practitioners a new resource to help their clients function more independently in our diverse society. 

The book, entitled: "Multiculturalism and Diversity in Applied Behavior Analysis: Bridging Theory and Application" is published by Routledge. It provides a theoretical and clinical structure to address the concepts of multiculturalism and diversity in the field and includes research and information derived from national experts, practicing clinicians, researchers, and academics. Serving as a guide to help behavior analysts comprehend the impact of diversity and multiculturalism in the ABA service delivery model, this book, according to its publisher,  is an important resource for working ABA professionals and for prospective behavior analysts.

Conners believes that the conversations surrounding multiculturalism and diversity have been absent in the training of behavior analysts, who frequently work with individuals on the autism spectrum,  and that there is a call for these conversations to occur now. He adds that the book can help begin these conversations as well as further them with the purpose of supporting current behavior analysts and training future generations to come. In addition to being a resource for ABA professionals, provides a link between theory and application. 

"It is important to bridge the theory and application of this concept because our society is becoming more diverse; therefore, so are the clients that we service." says Conners.  He notes that it is imperative to provide culturally responsive services to a diverse society. Despite the fact that diversity training is not a requirement for behavior analysts, the book serves to help these professionals make the connection on their own while assisting in the evolution of the ABA field. 

To learn more about "Multiculturalism and Diversity in Applied Behavior Analysis: Bridging Theory and Application", as well as how to purchase the book, click here.

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