Questions to ask a Behavior Analyst

The following is a list of questions that parents can ask behavior analysts who work with children with autism.  These questions are based on and should be used in conjunction with the “Guidelines for consumers of behavior analytic programs for children with autism”.  These guidelines were developed by the Autism Special Interest Group of the Association for Behavior Analysis.  These questions are designed to determine an applicants qualification to lead a behavior analytic program for children with autism.  Parents are also encouraged to obtain copies of certificates, vitaes, diplomas, and/or transcripts to ensure that the applicant has the appropriate credentials.  In addition, parents should ask questions regarding the applicants teaching philosophy.

1.      What graduate-level coursework have you taken in behavior analysis?

-Was the coursework graduate-level?

-Was the coursework behavior analytic in nature?

2.      Do you have a masters or doctorate from a program that specializes in behavior analysis?

-Was the degree in a field appropriate to the education of young children with autism?(e.g. psychology, human development, (special) education)

-Did the program emphasize behavior analysis? (note:  many special education programs do not emphasize behavior analysis).

3.  Who supervised your training to teach children with autism using behavior analysis?

-Did you receive supervised training?

-Did that training involve using behavior analysis?

-Did that training involve teaching children with autism?

4.       Are you a board certified behavior analyst?  Are you qualified to sit for the exam?

5.  For how many years have you been using behavior analysis to teach children with autism?

6.  How many children have you worked with?  How many were about the same age as my child?