This comparison draws in part from “Third Wave Applied Behavior Analysis: Evolving Our Science and Practice on a Foundation of Human Dignity” by Jonathan Tarbox, PhD., BCBA-D (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 third wave applied behavior analysis: evolving our science and practice on a foundation of human dignity, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Definition of Effectiveness | Traditional: Effectiveness defined primarily by measurable behavior change in socially significant areas | Third Wave: Effectiveness defined by behavior change that also respects client dignity, aligns with client values, and improves quality of life |
| Goal Selection Process | Traditional: Goals selected based on functional assessment, developmental norms, and caregiver priorities | Third Wave: Goals selected collaboratively with the client and stakeholders, with explicit examination of whether goals serve client wellbeing versus social conformity |
| Client Autonomy | Traditional: Autonomy supported through informed consent and preference assessment but may not include ongoing assent monitoring | Third Wave: Ongoing assent monitoring with formal protocols for responding to assent withdrawal during intervention |
| Relationship with Autistic Community | Traditional: Community feedback may be acknowledged but not systematically incorporated into practice standards | Third Wave: Active engagement with autistic voices informing goal selection, intervention design, and outcome evaluation |
| Cultural Considerations | Traditional: Cultural variables acknowledged but may not be systematically assessed and integrated into treatment | Third Wave: Cultural responsiveness explicitly assessed and integrated into all aspects of service delivery |
| Therapeutic Relationship | Traditional: Relationship important for rapport but not explicitly targeted or measured as an outcome variable | Third Wave: Quality of the therapeutic relationship monitored as a critical variable affecting both process and outcomes |
| Approach to Normalization | Traditional: Normalization of behavior often an implicit or explicit treatment goal | Third Wave: Normalization questioned as a default goal, with focus on individual wellbeing and functional significance |
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 third wave applied behavior analysis: evolving our science and practice on a foundation of human dignity 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.
Third Wave Applied Behavior Analysis: Evolving Our Science and Practice on a Foundation of Human Dignity — Jonathan Tarbox · 1 BACB Ethics CEUs · $15
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.
279 research articles with practitioner takeaways
258 research articles with practitioner takeaways
239 research articles with practitioner takeaways
1 BACB Ethics CEUs · $15 · 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.