This comparison draws in part from “CONNECT: The Clinical Intersection Model” by Amy Brownson (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 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.
| 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 |
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 connect: the clinical intersection model 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.
CONNECT: The Clinical Intersection Model — Amy Brownson · 1 BACB General CEUs · $0
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
279 research articles with practitioner takeaways
258 research articles with practitioner takeaways
1 BACB General CEUs · $0 · 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.