Association for Behavior Analysis International

Association for Behavior Analysis International
Name	Association for Behavior Analysis International
Founded	0 1974
Location	Portage, Michigan, United States
Key people	James M. Johnston (Founding President)
Focus	Behavior analysis
Website	https://www.abainternational.org

Association for Behavior Analysis International. It is a nonprofit professional organization dedicated to the advancement of the science and practice of behavior analysis. Founded in 1974, the association serves as a central hub for researchers, educators, and practitioners working across diverse domains such as autism intervention, organizational behavior management, and experimental analysis of behavior. Its mission encompasses supporting the growth of the discipline through conferences, publications, and advocacy for ethical standards.

History and founding

The organization was formally established in 1974, emerging from growing interest in the principles of B.F. Skinner and the experimental analysis of behavior. Key founding figures included James M. Johnston, who served as its first president, and other prominent scholars from institutions like Western Michigan University and the University of Kansas. Its creation coincided with the rise of applied behavior analysis as a distinct field, following seminal works like the 1968 article by Donald Baer, Montrose Wolf, and Todd Risley. Early meetings were often held in conjunction with the Midwestern Association of Behavior Analysis, helping to solidify a dedicated professional community.

Mission and objectives

The primary mission is to develop and support the growth of behavior analysis as a profession and scientific discipline. Core objectives include promoting research in both the experimental analysis of behavior and its applications, supporting the dissemination of knowledge through its annual convention, and advocating for the profession globally. It places strong emphasis on the ethical application of behavioral principles, as codified in the Behavior Analyst Certification Board's guidelines, and seeks to foster interdisciplinary connections with fields like behavioral pharmacology and behavioral economics.

Organizational structure

Governance is provided by an elected Board of Directors, which includes officers such as the President, President-elect, and Secretary-Treasurer. Day-to-day operations are managed by an executive director and staff based in Portage, Michigan. The association maintains several standing committees, including the Science Board, the Practice Board, and the International Development Committee, each focusing on specific strategic areas. Key policy and disciplinary matters are often addressed in collaboration with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board and the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts.

Key activities and programs

Its flagship event is the annual ABAI International Convention, which attracts thousands of attendees and features presentations from leading figures like Murray Sidman and Linda J. Hayes. The organization also sponsors the ABA International Autism Conference and various continuing education workshops. It actively supports the Society for the Advancement of Behavior Analysis awards program, which honors contributions from individuals such as Charles Ferster and Jack Michael. Additional programs include grants for student research and initiatives to promote diversity within the field.

Publications and journals

The association publishes several peer-reviewed journals, most notably The Behavior Analyst and Behavior Analysis in Practice. It also publishes the newsletter Inside Behavior Analysis and collaborates on the journal Perspectives on Behavior Science. These publications feature influential work by researchers like Ivan Lovaas, Brian Iwata, and Martha E. Snell, covering topics from verbal behavior to functional analysis. Many articles serve as key resources for professionals preparing for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst examination.

Affiliated chapters and special interest groups

The organization supports a global network of affiliated chapters, such as the California Association for Behavior Analysis and the UK Society for Behaviour Analysis. It also recognizes numerous special interest groups focusing on areas like behavioral gerontology, environmental sustainability, and clinical behavior analysis. These groups, including those dedicated to the works of B.F. Skinner or the Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies, facilitate specialized discourse and collaboration at the annual convention and through independent events.

Impact and recognition

The association has played a pivotal role in the professionalization of behavior analysis, influencing the development of credentialing standards through the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. Its advocacy has contributed to insurance reform legislation in states like California and Massachusetts for autism services. The annual convention is recognized as a premier forum for presenting groundbreaking research, from studies on stimulus equivalence to advancements in organizational behavior management. Its efforts have helped establish behavior analysis as a validated approach in educational settings, healthcare, and international development programs.

Category:Behavioral organizations Category:Scientific societies