What Is a Behavior Analyst and How Do You Become One

Introduction

• Behavior analysts are professionals who use techniques and treatments to promote positive outcomes and solve behavior-related issues.
• The field is known as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and is used in various settings including education, human resources, and healthcare.

Role of a Behavior Analyst

• BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst): Help address behavior problems in different environments.
• Commonly associated with helping children on the autism spectrum but applicable in many other areas.
• Activities include meeting with clients, observing behavior, collecting and analyzing data, and implementing interventions.

Techniques Used by BCBAs

• Token Economy Systems: Award points for desired behaviors that can be exchanged for rewards.
• Discrete Trial Training: Breaks down skills or behaviors into steps.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Used to address internal issues like anxiety and depression.

Specialties in Behavior Analysis

• Behavioral treatment of autism and developmental disabilities.
• Organizational behavior management, gerontology, clinical behavior analysis.
• Other areas include health and fitness, environmental sustainability, and pediatrics.

Career Levels in Behavior Analysis

1. Registered Behavior Technician (RBT):
   • Entry-level, requires a high school diploma and training.
   • Implements strategies but does not create plans.
2. Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA):
   • Requires an undergraduate degree.
   • Works under a BCBA's supervision.
3. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA):
   • Requires a master’s degree and passing the BACB exam.
4. Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral Level (BCBA-D):
   • Same as BCBA with additional doctoral training, leading to potential leadership roles.

Salary Expectations

• Salaries vary by certification level:
  • RBT: ~$33,000/year
  • BCaBA: ~$45,000/year
  • BCBA: ~$70,000/year
  • BCBA-D: ~$85,000/year

Education Pathways to Become a Behavior Analyst

• Bachelor’s Degree: In Applied Behavioral Analysis for entry-level roles as BCaBA.
• Master’s Degree: Required for BCBA, can be in ABA or related fields like special education.
• Graduate Certificate: Available for those with a master’s degree in related fields.
• Ph.D. in ABA: For leadership or research roles.

Steps to Become a Behavior Analyst

1. Obtain a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, or social work.
2. Pursue a graduate degree in ABA or a related field, or complete additional coursework if holding a master's in another concentration.
3. Complete supervised fieldwork (typically 2,000 hours).
4. Pass the BCBA exam administered by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).
5. Engage in continuing education to maintain certification.

Impact of Behavior Analysts

• Behavior analysts have a dynamic role across various environments and specialties.
• They contribute significantly to improving behavioral outcomes, supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, and advancing research in behavioral sciences.