This comparison draws in part from “Examining the Intersections of Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation in Behavior Analysis” by Shawn Capell, M.S., BCBA., LBA-TX (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 examining the intersections of race, gender, and sexual orientation in behavior analysis, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Understanding of Experience | Single-Identity: Examines each identity category separately, potentially missing the unique experiences created by their interaction | Intersectional: Examines how multiple identities interact to create experiences that cannot be understood through any single lens |
| Diversity Initiatives | Single-Identity: Creates separate programs for each identity group (e.g., a program for racial minorities, a separate one for LGBTQ+ individuals) | Intersectional: Designs programs that account for overlapping identities and the unique needs they create |
| Assessment of Barriers | Single-Identity: Identifies barriers associated with individual identity factors | Intersectional: Identifies compounded barriers that emerge when multiple marginalized identities interact |
| Representation Goals | Single-Identity: Tracks representation along individual dimensions (percentage of racial minorities, percentage of LGBTQ+ individuals) | Intersectional: Examines representation at intersections (percentage of LGBTQ+ individuals of color in leadership, for example) |
| Training Content | Single-Identity: Provides separate training modules on cultural responsiveness, LGBTQ+ inclusion, etc. | Intersectional: Integrates identity factors into a unified framework that teaches practitioners to consider interactions among identities |
| Clinical Relevance | Single-Identity: May overlook how a client's intersecting identities create unique clinical needs | Intersectional: Produces more comprehensive clinical understanding by considering how multiple identities shape the client's environment and experience |
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 examining the intersections of race, gender, and sexual orientation in behavior analysis 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.
Examining the Intersections of Race, Gender, and Sexual Orientation in Behavior Analysis — Shawn Capell · 1.5 BACB Ethics CEUs · $30
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.
258 research articles with practitioner takeaways
239 research articles with practitioner takeaways
183 research articles with practitioner takeaways
1.5 BACB Ethics CEUs · $30 · 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.