Ep. 111- The Reality of Heart Rate Monitoring in FAs

Resources mentioned in this episode

1. Free 2 CEU course on Solving Clinical Challenges with Research- www.behavioristbookclub.com/solving

2. McCabe & Greer, 2023- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jaba.1019

Please contact Matt @ [email protected] if you have any questions or if you need help accessing the full article!

Full Transcript (Click for downloadable copy)

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Discussing the reality of Heart Rate Monitoring in Functional Analyses

Welcome to the Behaviorist Book Club, where we delve deep into research articles to help you enhance your understanding of behavior analysis. In this episode, we explore the evaluations of heart rate during functional analyses of destructive behavior by McCabe and Greer. Hosted by Matt Harrington, let's uncover the findings and implications of this intriguing study.

Setting the Stage

The study published in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis in 2023 aimed to validate a heart rate monitor during functional analysis conditions to determine if heart rate serves as a signal for approaching destructive behavior. This study sparked excitement among practitioners keen on utilizing advanced technology to predict behavior based on physiological cues.

Exploring Covert Behavior

Behavior analysis delves into both overt and covert behaviors, emphasizing that behaviors are not solely observable actions but also include internal processes like emotions. The study challenges the conventional notion of behavior analysis by investigating the potential of heart rate as a precursor to destructive behavior.

The Study's Findings

Despite high hopes, the study revealed a null effect, indicating that heart rate monitors were not able to predict destructive behavior reliably. While the results were not as anticipated, the study opens up discussions about the future of applied behavior analysis and the search for other precursors beyond overt behaviors like aggression.

Looking Ahead

While this particular study may not have yielded the desired outcomes, it serves as a stepping stone for future research in the realm of heart rate monitoring and behavioral analysis. The study encourages researchers to explore alternative approaches and refine existing methodologies to harness the full potential of physiological cues in predicting behavior.

Embracing the Complexity of Precursors

The study challenges us to consider nuanced precursors to behavior, highlighting the importance of thoroughly understanding clients and their unique tells. While heart rate monitoring may not have provided the expected results, the study underscores the significance of caregiver interviews and close observation in identifying subtle behavioral cues.

Conclusion

As we navigate the evolving landscape of behavior analysis, studies like this shed light on the complexities of predicting behavior and the potential of advanced technologies in enhancing our understanding. While the road ahead may hold uncertainties, the journey of discovery and innovation continues in the pursuit of optimizing interventions and outcomes.