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What is Behavior Analysis?

Behavior analysis is the scientific study of behavior.

Behavior analysts ask, Why does behavior change over time? They seek answers by looking at the biological and environmental factors, although they are primarily interested in the role of environment in behavior change. Many behavior analysts do either basic or applied research. Others specialize in applying behavior change principles to enhancing quality of life. To read further information about behavior analysis, click on the questions below.

Understanding Behavior Analysis

1. Why is the field called behavior analysis?

2. If thoughts and feelings do not explain behavior, what does?

3. Is it true that behavior analysts claim that behavior is explained solely by the environment, that biology doesn’t matter?

4. Are behavior analyst and behaviorist equivalent terms?

5. You study behavior. What is behavior?

6. How broad is the application of behavior analysis?

7. Thoughts and feelings seem very important. Is it true that behavior analysts ignore them?

8. What kinds of research do behavior analysts do?

9. Do all behavior analysts do research?

10. Are behavior therapists the same as applied behavior analysts?

11. I’ve heard that applied behavior analysts use drugs, psychosurgery, and electro-convulsive shock therapy to change behavior. Is this the case?

12. But don’t applied behavior analysts use electric shock and other forms of physical punishment?

13. Is behavior analysis becoming more widely accepted?