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Cultural Considerations in the Dissemination of Applied Behavior Analysis to Non-Western Countries |
Tuesday, May 29, 2012 |
10:30 AM–11:50 AM |
301 (TCC) |
Area: AUT; Domain: Service Delivery |
Chair: Dennis Dixon (Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc.) |
Abstract: Lack of effective dissemination of evidence-based research produces an enormous gap between proven research and its eventual translation into common medical practice. A broad review of research studies concluded that it takes 17 years to translate 14% of research findings into practice (Balas, 1998). Consequently, the dissemination component of evidence-based practices becomes almost as critical as the practices themselves. This symposium will address the infrastructure, social, cultural, and linguistic barriers that arise in efforts to implement applied behavior analysis in non-Western countries as they grapple with the growing, globally-unbiased, prevalence rates of autism spectrum disorders. This symposium will address this topic through four discussions of dissemination efforts across various countries and cultures. |
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The Wavering ABA Infrastructure in Iran |
MORVARID NAGHSHINEH (Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc.) |
Abstract: Although Iran has experienced an increase in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence rate, awareness, treatment, and application of treatment remain inadequate. ASD is oblivious to race, culture, or socioeconomic status. Developing countries and emerging economies, such as Iran, often lack awareness of ASD. Further, the availability of effective treatment is often lacking. Due to inadequate availability of resources, current utilization of applied behavior analysis (ABA) often falls short of obtaining optimal results. Recent estimates of prevalence in Iran and utilization of empirically supported treatments are significantly less than in most Western nations (Samadi et al., 2011). This may be due in part to aspects of Iranian culture. A dire need exists for a structured ABA dissemination framework. This presentation discusses specific cultural and linguistic considerations and provides case studies of dissemination efforts as example. |
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Dissemination Challenges in India |
DIPTI MUDGAL (May Institute) |
Abstract: The cultural, linguistic, and economic diversity that characterizes India hinders the broad dissemination of medical developments in general and applied behavior analysis in particular. While technological advancements dominate the Indian culture, access to medical advancements via such technology represents a fundamental barrier. Consequently, unique and significant barriers exist for the behavior analyst in India. Dissemination efforts must consider the diverse ethnic, religious, and social groups. This talk discusses specific barriers to the dissemination of ABA within India and suggests potential strategies with which to overcome such barriers. |
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Translation in Dissemination of Applied Behavior Analysis to the Korean Community |
JINA JANG (Center for Autism and Related Disorders, Inc.) |
Abstract: South Korea has experienced a significant increase in the prevalence rate of ASD over the past decade. While a recent report of ASD prevalence in South Korea is likely an over-estimate (Kim, et al., 2011), the prevalence rate of autism in South Korea is undeniably increasing. In spite of this demand, the availability of well-trained behavior analysts is extremely low (only 8 Board Certified Behavior Analysts in South Korea). Despite the desperate need for ABA in South Korea, a general lack of understanding and acceptance of ABA exists. Therefore, awareness and dissemination of the principles and procedures of ABA are crucial in South Korea. One of the problems of ABA dissemination in non-western cultures is overcoming the language barrier. In this presentation, two studies that aimed to translate the existing ABA information/materials (i.e. introduction to ABA, the Questions About Behavioral Function) are discussed. Further, obstacles that occurred in the process of translation and suggestions to improve future dissemination of ABA to the Korean community are addressed. |
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Challenges of Providing Services in Non-Western Countries |
CATHERINE M. MINCH (Center For Autism and Related Disorders, Inc.) |
Abstract: A number of challenges exist in the implementation of applied behavior analytic treatments within non-Western cultures. Existing policies and treatment standards may be less effective in non-Western cultures because they have been developed within the framework of western cultural values and resources. Further, when implementing ABA within non-Western countries, the lack of availability of resources and information is alarming. In this presentation, the aim is to discuss the implementation of ABA treatments from a clinical point of view, providing thorough descriptions of service delivery in Dubai, South Africa, and Japan through case studies. In addition, challenges of provision of consultation services in these countries, as well as the use of telemedicine, will be discussed. |
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