Compassion and Social Justice within Behavior Analysis

Course overview

The goal of behavior analysis is to develop a scientific approach that can be used to understand broad and complex human behaviors. Behavior analysts have been working towards social change for a multitude of years by addressing topics such as social justice, human rights, and sustainability. Additionally, behavior analysts have the capability, tools, and scientific framework to coordinate meaningful and enduring socially significant change. Therefore, through the knowledge and resources that are available in the field of behavior analysis, failed processes and systems can be replaced with effective procedures that ensure equality for all individuals. It is key that awareness is raised around the importance of understanding diversity as it coincides with cultural norms, values, and practices and the effect it can have on treatment outcomes. Furthermore, it is also important to discuss various considerations as to the adoption of effective treatments as well as discuss some of the challenges that are present within a world of diverse individuals and different cultural norms. In this course, participants will learn to (1) discuss how empathy and compassion can be viewed as behavioral repertoires, (2) identify the role of compassion in social justice through a conceptual analysis of the contingencies, rules, values, and communities that provide support for compassionate action within social justice concerns, and (3) discuss cultural considerations for delivering effective treatment.