This comparison draws in part from “A Compassionate Approach to Understanding and Addressing Interfering Behaviors” by Celia Heyman, PhD, BCBA-D (BehaviorLive), and extends it with peer-reviewed research from our library of 27,900+ ABA research articles. The decision framework, BACB ethics code references, and cross-links below are synthesized by Behaviorist Book Club.
View the original presentation →The evolution of applied behavior analysis practice has produced two broad orientations toward interfering behavior. Traditional contingency-focused ABA emphasizes functional analysis, identification of the maintaining reinforcer, and direct manipulation of contingencies to reduce challenging behavior and increase alternatives. Comprehensive compassionate ABA builds on this foundation by expanding the scope of assessment to include setting events, trauma factors, and relational variables, and by prioritizing safety, rapport, assent, and televisiblity alongside behavior change outcomes. Both approaches are grounded in the same behavioral science, but they differ in the breadth of variables considered, the processes prioritized, and the standards by which success is evaluated. Understanding these differences helps practitioners make informed decisions about their clinical approach.
| Factor | Evidence-Based Approach | Traditional Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Scope of assessment | Focuses on immediate antecedents, consequences, and the maintaining function of behavior | Includes setting events, trauma history, sensory factors, relational quality, and environmental context |
| Role of therapeutic relationship | Viewed as helpful but not essential; emphasis on procedural implementation | Treated as a clinical intervention; rapport-building is a prerequisite for effective treatment |
| Crisis response approach | May emphasize continued implementation of behavior plan during escalation | Prioritizes de-escalation, safety, and environmental management during crisis |
| Assent monitoring | Consent obtained from guardians; session continuation based on plan requirements | Ongoing assent monitored through behavioral indicators; withdrawal triggers immediate adjustment |
| Measure of success | Behavior change data: reduction in target behavior, increase in replacement behavior | Behavior change plus quality of life, relationship quality, safety metrics, and individual wellbeing |
| Televisiblity consideration | Intervention evaluated primarily on technical merit and effectiveness data | Intervention must also pass the standard of appearing reasonable and dignified to an outside observer |
| Staff safety and wellbeing | Staff expected to implement plans as written; injury viewed as occupational risk | Staff safety is a primary consideration; plans designed to minimize risk to all parties |
| Intervention hierarchy | Functional analysis leads to function-matched contingency manipulation as primary intervention | Setting event modification and skill building are prioritized; contingency manipulation is one component of comprehensive plan |
The ABA Clubhouse has 60+ on-demand CEUs including ethics, supervision, and clinical topics like this one. Plus a new live CEU every Wednesday.
Use this framework when approaching a compassionate approach to understanding and addressing interfering behaviors in your practice:
Does the data support a need for intervention? Is there a meaningful impact on the individual's quality of life, safety, or access to reinforcement?
YES → Proceed to assessment NO → Document reasoning, monitor
A functional assessment should guide intervention selection. Avoid defaulting to standard protocols without individual analysis. Consider environmental variables, setting events, and private events.
YES → Select evidence-based approach matched to function NO → Complete assessment first
Goals should be co-developed. Assent and informed consent are ethical requirements. The individual's preferences and values matter in selecting both goals and methods.
YES → Proceed with collaborative plan NO → Engage in shared decision-making
This course covers the clinical and ethical dimensions in detail with structured learning objectives and CEU credit.
A Compassionate Approach to Understanding and Addressing Interfering Behaviors — Celia Heyman · 1 BACB Ethics CEUs · $25
Take This Course →We extended this decision guide with research from our library — dig into the peer-reviewed studies behind each approach, in plain-English summaries written for BCBAs.
279 research articles with practitioner takeaways
252 research articles with practitioner takeaways
239 research articles with practitioner takeaways
1 BACB Ethics CEUs · $25 · BehaviorLive
Research-backed educational guide
Research-backed answers for behavior analysts
You earn CEUs from a dozen different places. Upload any certificate — from here, your employer, conferences, wherever — and always know exactly where you stand. Learning, Ethics, Supervision, all handled.
No credit card required. Cancel anytime.
All behavior-analytic intervention is individualized. The information on this page is for educational purposes and does not constitute clinical advice. Treatment decisions should be informed by the best available published research, individualized assessment, and obtained with the informed consent of the client or their legal guardian. Behavior analysts are responsible for practicing within the boundaries of their competence and adhering to the BACB Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts.