Introducing LADER: A Structured Approach to Effective Professional Interactions for Behavior Analysts

Abstract

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a human service profession using the science of behaviorism to promote meaningful changes in the lives of clients. However, misconceptions, misunderstandings, and false information have plagued our field since its inception and challenge the efficacy of our continued dissemination efforts. Effective science communication skills, especially for fields with a highly technical language such as ABA, promote marked improvements in client outcomes. Herein we introduce LADER, a structured and scaffolded approach to effective professional interactions for behavior analysts. The five components of LADER (listen, ask questions, determine misconceptions, engage, and reflect and evaluate) support analysts in navigating complex and potentially challenging conversations with clients, caregivers, collaborative professionals, and other stakeholders. The experiences and insights of current behavior professionals, and empirical research on effective science communication, underpins the components of LADER. Following a description of LADER, a hypothetical scenario provides readers with a vignette on how to apply LADER in practice.

Keywords: Applied behavior analysis; Effective communication; Misconceptions; Professional engagement.

Fig. 1

The Five Main Components of LADER. Note. The main components of LADER are show in white boxes. Arrows connect the components of LADER, with double-headed arrows between several domains. The gray boxes (right) show the eight “engage” behaviors commonly used by analysts when engaging in professional interactions with others. An arrow is shown from “reflect and evaluate” to “listen,” signifying a return to the beginning of LADER when necessary