By Matt Harrington, BCBA · Behaviorist Book Club · Clinical decision guide

Standard ABA Programming vs. CONNECT: A Comparative Framework for BCBAs

In This Guide

Side-by-Side Comparison
Clinical Decision Framework
Key Takeaways

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 connect: the clinical intersection model, 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.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Factor	Evidence-Based Approach	Traditional Approach
Primary programming framework	Standard ABA: behavioral skill targets selected from standardized assessments and normative sequences	CONNECT: interdisciplinary developmental sequences aligned with ASD diagnostic criteria and Autistic perspective
Prerequisite conditions	Standard ABA: instructional control and attending skills as primary session prerequisites	CONNECT: safety and connection as foundational conditions that must be assessed and established before intensive programming
Outcome measurement	Standard ABA: skill acquisition data as primary outcome metric; generalization probes	CONNECT: skill acquisition plus wellbeing and relational engagement indicators; broader quality-of-life outcomes
Interdisciplinary integration	Standard ABA: coordination with SLP and OT; discipline-specific goals typically delivered separately	CONNECT: explicit integration of SLP and OT developmental sequences into shared programming framework
Autistic perspective integration	Standard ABA: client preference and assent considered; normative outcomes as primary reference	CONNECT: Autistic perspective and experience centered as organizing principle for target selection and delivery
Evidence base status	Standard ABA: extensive empirical literature across diverse populations and outcomes	CONNECT: evolving framework; strong theoretical foundation; growing but not yet comprehensive outcome data

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Clinical Decision Framework

Use this framework when approaching connect: the clinical intersection model in your practice:

Step 1: Is intervention warranted?

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

Step 2: Have you conducted an individualized assessment?

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

Step 3: Is the individual/caregiver involved in decision-making?

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

Step 4: Verify your approach

✓ Is your intervention matched to the assessed function?
✓ Are you using the least restrictive effective approach?
✓ Is assent being monitored throughout?
✓ Do you have a data collection plan?
✓ Is there a plan for generalization and maintenance?

Key Takeaways

Individualization is non-negotiable. The best approach for one individual may not be appropriate for another, even with the same topography.
Assessment drives intervention. Function-based approaches consistently outperform topography-based ones in the literature.
Ethics are active, not passive. Ethical practice requires ongoing analysis, not just initial compliance.
Document everything. Both the decision to intervene and the decision not to intervene require documentation and justification.
Stay current. The evidence base in this area is evolving. What was standard practice five years ago may not reflect current best practices.

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CONNECT: The Clinical Intersection Model — Amy Brownson · 1 BACB General CEUs · $0

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Clinical Disclaimer

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.