Essential Readings in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Behavior Analytic Training Programs
Introduction
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are gaining recognition as essential components of behavior analytic training and practice. As the field evolves, behavior analysts must develop cultural awareness and responsiveness to serve diverse populations effectively. Although the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) encourages DEI integration in coursework and supervision, many students report limited exposure to relevant readings.
A recent study by Li, Hollins, Morris, and Grey (2024) aimed to identify essential DEI readings for behavior analytic training programs. Their research, published in Behavior Analysis in Practice, sheds light on the current gaps and provides a list of recommended readings to better prepare future behavior analysts.
Why DEI Matters in Behavior Analysis Training
Historically, behavior analysis has focused primarily on behavior-environment relations, often neglecting the broader social and cultural influences on behavior. Previous research has highlighted:
- A lack of emphasis on social contexts in behavior analytic research (Zarcone et al., 2019).
- The need for culturally competent practice to improve client outcomes.
- A growing demand for DEI-focused training materials in both coursework and supervision settings.
Despite these identified needs, there remains a gap in accessible and structured DEI resources for behavior analysts. This study aimed to bridge this gap by identifying the most frequently used and recommended DEI readings.
How the Study Was Conducted
Li et al. (2024) surveyed behavior analysts and behavior analysis students to determine which DEI-focused readings were assigned in coursework and supervision. The survey was distributed through:
- Behavior analytic mailing lists.
- Professional social media groups.
- Networking within the behavior analytic community.
Key Questions in the Survey
Participants were asked to provide information on:
- DEI readings assigned in coursework.
- Supervision readings used by instructors and supervisors.
- Essential readings that they believed should be included in behavior analytic training.
Collected materials were categorized into:
- Books or book chapters.
- Peer-reviewed journal articles.
- Reports and gray literature.
- Web-based resources.
DEI topics covered in the materials included:
- Racial and ethnic diversity.
- Gender identity and sexual orientation.
- Disability and accessibility.
- Socioeconomic status and cultural barriers.
- Religious diversity.
Key Findings: Gaps and Commonly Assigned Readings
Limited DEI Exposure in Coursework
One of the study’s most striking findings was that 80% of students surveyed reported not being assigned DEI-related readings in their coursework. This suggests a significant gap in DEI education at the training level, emphasizing the need for more structured inclusion of these topics.
Most Common Diversity Domain: Racial and Ethnic Issues
Among the readings that were assigned, the majority focused on racial and ethnic diversity. While this is an important area, it indicates a need for expanded coverage of other diversity domains, such as disability advocacy, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and socioeconomic barriers.
Journal Articles Were the Most Frequently Assigned Resource
The study found that journal articles, particularly those published in behavior analytic journals, were the most common type of DEI material assigned in training programs. This preference suggests that instructors may prioritize peer-reviewed research over book chapters, reports, or web-based resources.
Essential Readings: Recommended Resources for Behavior Analysts
Li et al. (2024) compiled a list of commonly assigned and highly recommended DEI readings in behavior analytic training. Below are some of the most frequently cited publications:
1. Most Commonly Assigned Readings in Coursework
- Fong et al. (2016) – Developing Cultural Awareness Skills in Behavior Analysts.
- Wright (2019) – Cultural Humility in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
- Pritchett et al. (2021) – Addressing Social Justice in ABA Practices.
2. Readings Assigned by Supervisors
- Conners & Capell (2020) – Multiculturalism and Diversity in ABA.
- Beaulieu et al. (2018) – Cultural Competence in Behavior Analysis: Past, Present, and Future Implications.
- Matsuda et al. (2020) – Considerations for Diversity in Supervision and Training.
3. Web-Based and Additional Resources
- Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) – Guidance for Cultural Competence in ABA Practice.
- Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement and Resources.
- American Psychological Association (APA) Reports – Best Practices in Cultural Competence for Ethical Treatment.
While these readings provide a strong foundation, more work is needed to expand the breadth of DEI resources used in training programs.
Next Steps: Strengthening DEI in Behavior Analytic Training
Based on these findings, here are some steps that training programs, educators, and supervisors can take to enhance DEI learning:
1. Actively Incorporate DEI Readings in Coursework
- Ensure that behavior analysis courses consistently include DEI-focused readings.
- Adopt a structured DEI reading list covering multiple diversity dimensions.
- Encourage discussions on real-world applications of culturally responsive behavior analysis.
2. Promote DEI Discussions in Supervision
- Require supervised fieldwork students to review and discuss DEI literature.
- Encourage supervisors to use case studies that highlight diverse populations.
- Implement mentorship programs focused on inclusive behavior analytic practices.
3. Expand DEI Training Beyond Race and Ethnicity
- Increase resources on LGBTQ+ inclusivity in ABA practice.
- Address accessibility and disability advocacy within intervention strategies.
- Discuss socioeconomic barriers and ethical considerations in client treatment plans.
By integrating a broad range of DEI topics, future behavior analysts will be better equipped to serve diverse individuals and communities.
Conclusion
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are critical components of effective and ethical behavior analytic practice. However, the findings of Li et al. (2024) reveal significant gaps in the integration of DEI-focused readings in training programs. Many students report minimal exposure to DEI materials, and most assigned readings focus primarily on racial and ethnic diversity, leaving other essential diversity domains underrepresented.
To build a more inclusive and effective field, behavior analytic educators must actively incorporate diverse DEI readings into coursework, supervision, and ongoing professional development. By doing so, future behavior analysts can develop the cultural competence necessary to serve all clients equitably.
For further reading, explore the full study:
📄 Li, A., Hollins, N. A., Morris, C., & Grey, H. (2024). Essential Readings in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Behavior Analytic Training Programs. Behavior Analysis in Practice, 17(523–532).
🔗 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-023-00856-3
