Association for Behavior Analysis International

In light of the great benefits to conducting interdisciplinary work, it is not uncommon for practitioners to harbor misconceptions without a rich understanding of each contributing discipline. A panel discussion of the impact and perceptions of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Positive Behavior Support (PBS) will be conducted by 4 Board Certified Behavior Analysts that work in the domain of PBS. Foundations of ABA and PBS will be discussed from the early history of ABA influencing the application of PBS. Arguments over the past few decades will be presented from both sides of the debate. ABA and PBS in practice will be reviewed including common PBS practices and terminology, highlighting how the practices are rooted to behavior analytic principles. Finally, common misconceptions of PBS will be presented and addressed (i.e., PBS is fluffy, PBS only does antecedent intervention, PBS is not ABA). By debunking these fallacies, the goal is to disseminate proper understanding of PBS and facilitate a more thorough appreciation for the principles of behavior analysis as instrumental in the application of PBS.