This comparison draws in part from “Minimizing Implicit Bias in Practice: We Can Do Better for LGBT+ Folx” by Cassi Breaux, M.A., M.S., BCBA (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 minimizing implicit bias in practice: we can do better for lgbt+ folx, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Environment | Actively signals acceptance through inclusive intake forms, visible affirmation indicators, consistent pronoun use, and diverse representation in materials. Creates stimulus conditions for safety and engagement. | Uses standard forms and environments without specific accommodations for LGBT+ clients. May inadvertently signal that identity is unwelcome or irrelevant through omission. |
| Assessment Scope | Includes identity-related variables as potential antecedent conditions. Considers how environmental responses to client identity affect behavior. Assesses whether distress may be related to identity invalidation. | Focuses on topography and function of behavior without considering identity-related environmental variables. May miss relevant maintaining variables for behavior. |
| Therapeutic Relationship | Builds rapport by demonstrating knowledge and acceptance of the client's identity. Uses chosen name and pronouns as a clinical practice. Addresses identity topics when clinically relevant. | Relies on standard rapport-building strategies without identity-specific accommodations. May avoid identity topics, creating distance between practitioner and client. |
| Risk of Harm | Minimizes harm by creating safe conditions and ensuring no treatment goals target identity. Recognizes and addresses conversion-adjacent practices. | May inadvertently cause harm through omission: failing to use correct pronouns, not recognizing identity-related distress, or allowing goals that implicitly enforce gender conformity. |
| Practitioner Development | Requires ongoing self-education about gender diversity, implicit bias assessment, and affirming care practices. Treats cultural competence with LGBT+ populations as a professional skill to be developed. | Does not specifically require development of LGBT+ competencies, which may leave the practitioner unprepared when serving gender-diverse or LGB+ clients. |
| Ethical Alignment | Directly addresses Ethics Code standards on nondiscrimination (1.06), cultural responsiveness (1.07), bias awareness (1.10), and risk minimization (2.15). | May technically comply with nondiscrimination standards but underperforms on cultural responsiveness and bias awareness requirements. |
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 minimizing implicit bias in practice: we can do better for lgbt+ folx 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.
Minimizing Implicit Bias in Practice: We Can Do Better for LGBT+ Folx — Cassi Breaux · 1 BACB Ethics CEUs · $10
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 Ethics CEUs · $10 · BehaviorLive
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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.