ABA 754 - Behavioral Research on Complex Skill Acquisition

This doctoral-level seminar explores recent research on complex human behavior within the field of behavior analysis. Historically, behavior analysis has concentrated on basic behaviors, leaving complex cognitive behaviors, like problem-solving and perspective-taking, to other psychological fields. However, recent research in stimulus equivalence, relational frame theory, and naming has sought to establish and teach complex behaviors in individuals who do not already display them. The course examines studies on generalized relational operants and their application to children with and without autism and other developmental disorders. It covers topics such as working memory, self-monitoring, rule-governed behavior, and understanding humor. By reviewing these advances, the course pushes behavior analysis into areas traditionally dominated by cognitive psychology, expanding its scope as a comprehensive science of behavior.

(Cr: 3)