This comparison draws in part from “Conflict management for behavior analysts” by Ellie Kazemi, PhD (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 →One of the most consequential decisions a behavior analyst makes is not just what intervention to use, but how to approach the clinical question in the first place. For conflict management for behavior analysts, the difference between an evidence-based, individualized approach and a traditional, protocol-driven one can significantly impact outcomes.
This guide lays out the key factors side by side to support your clinical decision-making.
| Factor | Evidence-Based Approach | Traditional Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Target of intervention | Position-based: The stated positions of each party; seeks compromise between competing demands | ACT-informed: The practitioner's internal processes (fusion, avoidance, values-behavior gaps) as prerequisites to productive negotiation |
| Mechanism of resolution | Position-based: Bargaining and concession exchange until an acceptable midpoint is reached | ACT-informed: Values clarification and psychological flexibility that allow genuine collaborative problem-solving rather than position defense |
| Applicability to high-arousal conflicts | Position-based: Assumes cognitive availability; less effective when emotional arousal is high | ACT-informed: Directly addresses arousal through defusion and acceptance, creating conditions for productive engagement |
| Alignment with behavioral science | Position-based: Based on game theory and rational choice models not specifically grounded in behavioral science | ACT-informed: Based on Relational Frame Theory and behavioral principles already familiar to ABA practitioners |
| Long-term relationship quality | Position-based: Repeated compromise can produce resentment if one party consistently concedes more | ACT-informed: Values-consistent, psychologically flexible engagement builds trust even in difficult conversations |
| Training implications | Position-based: Can be trained through negotiation skills workshops; primarily behavioral/strategic | ACT-informed: Requires both skill training and experiential practice with defusion and values clarification |
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 conflict management for behavior analysts 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.
Conflict management for behavior analysts — Ellie Kazemi · 1 BACB Supervision CEUs · $19.99
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.
280 research articles with practitioner takeaways
258 research articles with practitioner takeaways
233 research articles with practitioner takeaways
1 BACB Supervision CEUs · $19.99 · BehaviorLive
Research-backed educational guide
Research-backed answers for behavior analysts
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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.