A Systematic Review and Reflection on the Dimensions of Diversity Represented in Behavior Analytic Research

The US continues to transition toward a majority-minority composition and this trend has advanced most rapidly for school-aged children. Clinical work with diverse populations, and their families, calls for specialized skills and training experiences; however, these are not yet strongly reflected in most pre-service training programs in applied behavior analysis (ABA). A systematic review was conducted to evaluate the scope and range of the dimensions of diversity included in the behavior analytic literature (e.g., race/ethnicity, gender, sexuality) as well as to compile recommendations for improving culturally responsive practices in ABA (PROSPERO Registration: CRD42020181227). The search yielded a total of 58 unique publications that featured one or more dimensions of diversity. These works were summarized in terms of the dimension(s) of diversity featured, the goal(s) of the research, the types of demographics reported, and the recommendations put forth for improving culturally responsive practices in ABA. A reflection on the current state of diversity research in the field is provided and discussed in the context of current and future recommendations for culturally responsive behavior analysis.

Automated summary

The article discusses the ongoing transition towards a majority-minority composition in the US, particularly among school-aged children. It highlights the need for specialized skills and training in clinical work with diverse populations and their families, which is currently lacking in most pre-service training programs in applied behavior analysis (ABA). Through a systematic review of behavior analytic literature, the article summarizes various dimensions of diversity and provides recommendations for improving culturally responsive practices in ABA. It reflects on the current state of diversity research in the field and discusses current and future recommendations for culturally responsive behavior analysis.