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Licensing Behavior Analysts: Risks and Alternatives

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Abstract

Under certain conditions, obtaining state laws to license practitioners of behavior analysis might be feasible and could produce benefits for practitioners and consumers. Those conditions are not yet in place in most states, however, and pursuing licensure prematurely carries substantial risks for the entire field. We describe the most serious risks and the conditions that make it more or less likely that licensure initiatives will succeed. Finally, we recommend strategies for securing recognition of practitioners of behavior analysis in laws, regulations, and policies that can minimize risks.

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References

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Association of Professional Behavior Analysts, San Diego, USA

    Gina Green Ph.D., BCBA

  2. Auburn University, Auburn, USA

    James M. Johnston Ph.D., BCBA

Authors
  1. Gina Green Ph.D., BCBA
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  2. James M. Johnston Ph.D., BCBA
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Gina Green Ph.D., BCBA.

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The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors, and do not represent the position of the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts.

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Green, G., Johnston, J.M. Licensing Behavior Analysts: Risks and Alternatives. Behav Analysis Practice 2, 59–64 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03391739

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03391739

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