Neurodiversity-Affirming Applied Behavior Analysis
Use identity-first language, ongoing assent checks, and Autistic social-validity input to make ABA neurodiversity-affirming.
01Research in Context
What this study did
Allen et al. (2024) asked Autistic adults what respectful ABA looks like.
They turned the answers into a checklist for clinicians.
No new data were collected; it is a call-to-action paper.
What they found
Three big moves rose to the top.
Say "Autistic person," not "person with autism."
Check assent every session and add Autistic voices to social-validity surveys.
How this fits with other research
Lee et al. (2022) survey shows Autistic adults learn sex-ed from the internet, not peers.
That gap supports the paper’s plea to ask clients what they want instead of guessing.
Callahan et al. (2019) found parents like therapists who show "behavioral artistry"—warmth and creativity.
Allen’s assent steps give a concrete way to show that warmth.
Coop et al. (2025) urge BCBAs to speak up in public policy.
Together the two papers frame 2025-era practice: fight for rights outside the clinic and for dignity inside it.
Why it matters
You can start today.
Swap your language to identity-first, add a 10-second assent check at the top of each trial block, and invite at least one Autistic voice when you pick goals.
These zero-cost moves align your program with neurodiversity values and may boost assent, rapport, and parent satisfaction.
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02At a glance
03Original abstract
Abstract Individuals within the Autistic and Neurodivergent communities have shared numerous concerns about applied behavior analysis (ABA). These criticisms often relate to the ableism reflected within current practices, which have impeded the dignity and autonomy of many individuals with disabilities served through ABA. Both within the field and outside of the field, there is a growing acknowledgment of the need to listen, reflect, and reconsider approaches to service delivery, which can ultimately benefit service recipients well beyond the Autistic or Neurodivergent communities. ABA is committed to being responsive to consumers, even when the social validity data are unfavorable, and the path forward is unclear. This article will provide an overview of historical and current perspectives regarding disability rights, the Autistic and Neurodiversity advocacy movements, and disability as a form of diversity. Calls to action will be presented with accompanying neurodiversity-affirming actions for behavior analytic practitioners. These calls to action are informed by feedback from the Autistic and Neurodivergent communities as well as other interested parties and are related to (1) client identity and language; (2) dignity, self-determination, choice, and assent; and (3) social validity, which may be acted on through compassionate and affirming approaches.
Behavior Analysis in Practice, 2024 · doi:10.1007/s40617-024-00918-0