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Guidance for Behavior Analysts in Addressing Racial Implicit Bias

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Abstract

In the practice of applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment, implicit bias, which can be defined in behavioral terms, needs to be addressed because it may inadvertently lead to overt forms of discrimination on the basis of race. Although little research has been conducted within the field of ABA on racial implicit bias, information gathered from related fields can provide insight as to how behavior analysts can promote positive change in this area. Drawing from existing literature, recommendations are provided regarding assessment and administration of interventions to reduce racial implicit bias for clinicians. The purpose of this article is to provide strategies that behavior analysts can implement to assess and reduce behaviors related to implicit bias exhibited by practitioners, thereby reducing racial discrimination with clients and staff.

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Correspondence to Karen Nohelty.

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The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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This article does not contain research conducted with human participants.

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This article is being published on an expedited basis, as part of a series of emergency publications designed to help practitioners of applied behavior analysis take immediate action to address police brutality and systemic racism. The journal would like to especially thank Associate Editor, Dr. Jomella Watson-Thompson. In addition, the journal extends thanks to Janani Vaidya and Dr. Marlesha Bell for their insightful and expeditious reviews of this manuscript. The views and strategies suggested by the articles in this series do not represent the positions of the Association for Behavior Analysis, International or Springer Nature.

Guest Editor, Denisha Gingles

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Jaramillo, C., Nohelty, K. Guidance for Behavior Analysts in Addressing Racial Implicit Bias. Behav Analysis Practice 15, 1170–1183 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-021-00631-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40617-021-00631-2

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