The Behavioral Observations Podcast with Matt Cicoria

Thanks for joining me in Session 315 of The Behavioral Observations Podcast. In this episode, I spoke with Drs. Gabi Morgan and David Adams to dive deep into trauma-informed behavior analysis. Gabi brings her 30-year journey in the field—from undergrad roots to professorship at Bay Path University—while David shares his evolution from child and family therapy to clinical psychology, with a heavy focus on foster and adoptive parenting. Both guests are passionate about closing the divide between trauma therapy and behavioral strategies, and they credit mentors like Dr. Jeannie Golden for lighting the way. We kick things off by unpacking what trauma really means. In doing so, as a content warning, please be aware that we do make general references to a variety of traumatic and adverse experiences. Having said that, David walks us through SAMHSA's three-part definition: the event, the experience, and the effects. It's not the event itself that defines trauma—it's the individual's response. He introduces "adverse conditioning experiences" as a behavior-analytic twist on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), spotlighting how negative associations get wired in through conditioning. From there, we contrast PTSD and complex PTSD. Same core symptoms (intrusive thoughts, avoidance, etc.), but complex PTSD adds prolonged exposure and three extra layers: impaired self-worth, rocky relationships, and emotional dysregulation. Gabi drives home a critical point: folks with developmental disabilities are at higher risk for trauma but often fly under the diagnostic radar. We need to get better at spotting trauma-related behaviors in this population. Screening, Brain Science, and Practical Strategies Screening is a big theme. We all agree behavior analysts aren't formally trained in assessment, but we have to be aware of how this is done. Gabi loves the Child Health and Development Institute's Child Trauma Screen (CTS), and the Massachusetts Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (Mass CANS) tool. David then nerds out on the neurobiology: trauma affects the amygdala (hypervigilance), hippocampus (memory glitches), hypothalamus (stress gone haywire), and frontal lobe (decision-making on the fritz). Enter the "amygdala hijack"—when fear short-circuits rational thought. Bottom line? Kids in fight-or-flight aren't in a teachable moment. Safety and calm have to come first. We close the show with actionable takeaways: risk-benefit analyses for every intervention (especially with histories of food neglect), "kind extinction" (empathy + withholding reinforcers), and the six pillars of trauma-informed care (safety, trustworthiness, peer support, collaboration, empowerment, cultural competence). TIC isn't a "hyphenated" ABA—it's the whole framework. Advice for new BCBAs? Seek trauma training, question "business as usual," and be the stable adult in a kid's chaotic world. Empathy, creativity, and reducing fear are your superpowers. Additional Resources Toward Trauma-Informed Applications of Behavior Analysis (Rajaraman, et al., 2021) Inside JABA 10 with Drs. Jenn Austin and Adithyan Rajaraman Dr. Camille Kolu's BOP episode on Buffers (a must listen!) 4th Annual Bay Path University Trauma-Informed Practice and ABA Conference David's book: Trauma-Informed Foster and Adoptive Parenting SAFE-T Assessment Training from Cusp Emergence University Sponsor Shoutouts! Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! CEUs from Behavioral Observations. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here. The inaugural ABA CON CEU cruise, which launches on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas from February 16–20, 2026. Learn more about this cruise here. The 2026 Stone Soup Conference! This is one of the best values in the online conference space. I'm actually going to be one of the speakers at this year's event, along with a great cast of other characters you're probably familiar with. Save on your registration by using promo code PODCAST26! MindBodyBehavior's Certified Health Coach Program. If you're a BCBA looking to use your ABA skills to help people live healthier lifestyles, learn how to do it the right way, with expert instruction, mentoring, and guidance from Sarah Burby. Better still, podcast listeners can save $$$ by using the code BOP10 at check out. Click here to learn more! The 2026 Verbal Behavior Conference! Taking place March 26–27, 2026, in Austin, Texas, or livestream and on-demand on BehaviorLive. Presenters will include Drs. Mark Sundberg, Patrick McGreevy, Caio Miguel, Alice Shillingsburg, Sarah Frampton, Andresa De Souza, and Danielle LaFrance will share how Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior can guide the assessment and treatment of generative learning challenges in children with autism and other developmental disabilities. And don't miss the special pre-conference workshop on Wednesday, March 25. The discounted early-bird registration price is only available for a limited time, so get your ticket right away!

If you follow Behavioral Observations on Instagram, you might recall that I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to the 20th Annual Hawaii Association for Behavior Analysis conference to give the closing Keynote Address. I could devote an entire podcast episode to talking about all the wonderful people I met, the fun experiences I had, and the amazing sights I was able to take in. One of the biggest highlights though, was the opportunity to sneak in the following conversation I had with a panel of employees from Hawaii's Department of Education. It turns out that the State of Hawaii is doing some innovative work in bringing to bear specific behavioral technologies to improve the supports provided to children in school settings. This work is organized into a large scale endeavor that they have named The CARE Project. This panel consisted of Alysha Kim, Dodi Pritchett, Joshua Hoppe, and Sherene Hajiro. And before getting any further into this introduction, I want to thank my friends Katie Croce and Jamie Salter from Self and Match, for not only nudging us to have this conversation, but for also financially supporting it with a generous donation to the HABA. Here's what we talked about: The ways in which the Hawaii Department of Education differs from other state DOEs. The specific problems the CARE project was designed to address. The mindset shift from responding to preventing problem behavior. The DOE's collaboration with FTF and Emergent Learning. Specific case studies of successful interventions. How the DOE is collecting data for research purposes. The challenges of scaling these interventions in the face of staff turnover. How they turned the term "PFA/SBT" into a verb. How they see these types of supports evolving over time. Sponsor shoutouts! Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! CEUs from Behavioral Observations. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here. Behavior University. Their mission is to provide university quality professional development for the busy Behavior Analyst. Learn about their CEU offerings, including their 8-hour Supervision Course, as well as their RBT offerings over at behavioruniversity.com/observations. Don't forget to use the coupon code, PODCAST to save at checkout! MindBodyBehavior's Certified Health Coach Program. If you're a BCBA looking to use your ABA skills to help people live healthier lifestyles, learn how to do it the right way, with expert instruction, mentoring, and guidance from Sarah Burby. Better still, podcast listeners can save $$$ by using the code BOP10 at check out. Click here to learn more! The 2026 Verbal Behavior Conference! Taking place March 26–27, 2026, in Austin, Texas, or livestream and on-demand on BehaviorLive. Presenters will include Drs. Mark Sundberg, Patrick McGreevy, Caio Miguel, Alice Shillingsburg, Sarah Frampton, Andresa De Souza, and Danielle LaFrance will share how Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior can guide the assessment and treatment of generative learning challenges in children with autism and other developmental disabilities. And don't miss the special pre-conference workshop on Wednesday, March 25, led by Dr. Emily Kerwin and Gina Zecchin-Tirri from All Points Behavior (formerly The Carbone Clinic). The discounted early-bird registration price is only available for a limited time, so get your ticket right away!

In Session 313, Dr. Cody Morris from Salve Regina University, and the newly re-launched All Things Behavior podcast (please also see The BAPcast Podcast), joins me to dive into a topic that has merited quite a bit of discussion in Applied Behavior Analysis. These days, you pretty much have to be living under a rock in ABA circles to not have noticed the increased focus on assent practices in treatment programming. Cody is one of the preeminent authorities on this topic, and in this episode, we talk about the definitions of assent, how assent has been conceptualized in other fields, and how it applies to the work we do as Behavior Analysts. In doing so, we review Cody's article, Toward a Further Understanding of Assent, which was published in the winter 2024 issue. Long story short, if you're looking for a nuanced discussion on this topic that avoids binary, black and white conceptualizations, you've come to the right place. Here's a deeper dive into what we discussed: Assent in Behavior Analysis: Cody's research on assent—a concept similar to consent but applicable to individuals without legal authorization to consent for themselves. Assent involves four critical features: legal status, giving permission, adequate information, and the ability to withdraw permission. This concept is essential for involving clients in therapeutic decisions, particularly those with communication differences or developmental disabilities. Client Assent in Therapeutic Settings: The discussion covers the historical roots and practical applications of assent in behavior analysis. Cody clarifies that assent is a specific strategy for involving clients in treatment decisions, not an all-or-nothing requirement. He addresses the challenges of obtaining accurate verbal assent from clients with complex communication needs and recommends using multiple sources of information when assessing client preferences. Assent Procedures in Research: An examination of assent procedures in behavior analytic research, including the distinction between free choice and fair choice. The episode explores how researchers and clinicians can minimize undue influence and coercive contingencies while arranging fair choices and creating socially acceptable outcomes. Balancing Clinical Progress and Client Autonomy: Cody discusses the critical balance between making clinical progress and giving clients independence and autonomy. He explains that while some procedures are necessary and non-negotiable, there are often opportunities to involve clients in decisions about their treatment, such as choosing the time of day or setting for therapeutic activities or medication management. Implementing Assent in Practice: The episode addresses nuances and limitations of implementing client assent in behavioral therapy, emphasizing that assent should be balanced with clinical progress. Cody highlights the dangers of overgeneralizing procedures without individualizing treatment and encourages a broader approach to maximizing client involvement in therapeutic decisions. Challenges in Assent Assessment: A discussion on the challenges and limitations of developing simplified decision-making tools (like checklists) for assessing client assent. Cody emphasizes the need for nuanced clinical judgment due to insufficient research and recommends that researchers take small, focused steps in studying specific aspects of assent. Resources & References Morris, Dietrich, and Peterson. (2021). Participant assent in behavior analytic research: Considerations for participants with autism and developmental disabilities. Bannerman, et al., (1990). Balancing the right to habilitation with the right to personal liberties: The rights of people with developmental disabilities to eat too many doughnuts and take a nap. Inside JABA 24: Improving Health Routines for Adults with Disabilities Using Synchronous Reinforcement Strategies (CEU available!). Inside JABA 23: ABA Strategies for Safer Playground Behavior (CEU available!). Inside JABA 22: Response to Name Interventions for Staff and Caregivers (CEU available!). Skinner (1999). Cumulative Record. Northup (2000). Further evaluation of the accuracy of reinforcer surveys: A systematic replication. Good Will Hunting. Takeaways for Practitioners Assent is one tool within a larger framework of client-centered services, not the sole focus of treatment Incorporate clients in as many meaningful decisions as possible throughout treatment, distinguishing between necessary procedures and flexible choices Use multiple sources of information when assessing client preferences, especially for individuals with complex communication needs Balance clinical progress with client autonomy and independence Avoid overgeneralizing or rigidly following assent procedures without individualizing treatment Take a nuanced, clinically-informed approach to client involvement in therapeutic decisions This episode is brought to you by the following sponsors: • Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! • MindBodyBehavior's Certified Health Coach Program. If you're a BCBA looking to use your ABA skills to help people live healthier lifestyles, learn how to do it the right way, with expert instruction, mentoring, and guidance from Sarah Burby. Better still, podcast listeners can save $$$ by using the code BOP10 at check out. Click here to learn more! • HRIC Recruting. Cut out the middleman and speak directly with Barbara Voss, who's been placing BCBAs in great jobs all across the US for 15 years. • Behavior University. Their mission is to provide university quality professional development for the busy Behavior Analyst. Learn about their CEU offerings, including their 8-hour Supervision Course, as well as their RBT offerings over at behavioruniversity.com/observations. Don't forget to use the coupon code, PODCAST to save at checkout! • The 2026 Verbal Behavior Conference! Taking place March 26–27, 2026, in Austin, Texas, or livestream and on-demand on BehaviorLive. Presenters will include Drs. Mark Sundberg, Patrick McGreevy, Caio Miguel, Alice Shillingsburg, Sarah Frampton, Andresa De Souza, and Danielle LaFrance will share how Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior can guide the assessment and treatment of generative learning challenges in children with autism and other developmental disabilities. And don't miss the special pre-conference workshop on Wednesday, March 25, led by Dr. Emily Kerwin and Gina Zecchin-Tirri from All Points Behavior (formerly The Carbone Clinic). The discounted early-bird registration price is only available for a limited time, so get your ticket right away!

In this episode of The Behavioral Observations Podcast, I talk with Grant Sickle, former Amazon product leader and current head of product at Frontera, a company building AI-powered platforms to improve autism care. Grant shares how his team is developing assessment and diagnostic tools to shorten waitlists, streamline reporting, and support clinicians in delivering more efficient ABA therapy. We also discuss how Frontera's digital phenotyping app enables HIPAA-compliant behavior tracking, parent engagement, and asynchronous supervision — while addressing the issue of fraud prevention. This conversation highlights both the promise and the challenges of using AI in clinical settings, emphasizing the importance of clinician oversight, robust validation, and feedback loops. Grant also shares insights from Frontera's home-based pilot program, which helps parents capture real-world behavior data to support better generalization and treatment planning. Whether you're a BCBA, RBT, parent, or researcher, this episode offers a fascinating look at the intersection of technology, autism care, and ethical ABA practice. What You'll Learn in This Episode How Frontera is building AI-driven assessment and diagnostic tools for autism care Why clinician oversight remains critical in AI-powered healthcare solutions Insights into fraud prevention in ABA therapy using videographic evidence and facial recognition How home-based video tracking is supporting behavior generalization and parent engagement The challenges of adoption among BCBAs versus RBTs and parents Future directions for AI in ABA, including outcome measurement and identifying autism subpopulations The technique Amazon's founder used to find and correct problems Links to Related Resources The inaugural Frontera Series interview with Founder, Amol Deshpande AI, and the Future of Clinical Tools with Sydney Holmes Follow Frontera on LinkedIn and Instagram An overview of fraudulent billing practices in ABA Why Jeff Bezos' email address is publicly available

In Session 311, I sit down with Christina Nylander and Leah Hussain from Apollo Behavior to talk about culturally sensitive approaches to Autism intervention. We dive into three case studies that show how flexible, individualized care can make a huge difference in building the rapport that's so important in our clinical work. Along the way, we share strategies for gaining parent buy-in, supporting bilingual language development, and using AAC devices to help children communicate more effectively with their families. Here's what we cover: The parent training shift when cultural sensitivity and rapport-building are prioritized. Christina and Leah's bilingual language development success stories, including Spanish- and Russian-speaking families. The role of AAC devices in improving communication, and one of these case studies progressed to no longer needing this technology. My random thoughts on video documentation and other creative methods to communicate client progress to stakeholders. Throughout the discussion, we reflect on the importance of balancing clinical recommendations with cultural and educational values. It's not just about treatment plans—it's about building trust, respecting families' perspectives, and helping kids thrive in ways that feel authentic to them. Sidenote: If you want to learn about what it's like to work at Apollo, or check out their open positions, click here. Key Takeaways Cultural sensitivity builds stronger collaboration with families. Bilingual and AAC strategies can unlock communication progress. Showing progress through videos and creative methods strengthens parent engagement. Individualized parent training, including in multiple languages, increases accessibility. If you're a BCBA, ABA therapist, or behavioral health professional, I think you'll find this conversation full of practical ideas for making your work more effective—and more meaningful. Bilingual & Dual‑Language Interventions Neely et al. (2020) – Impact of language on behavior treatment outcomes. Banerjee et al. (2021) – Extending Functional Communication Training to Multiple Language Contexts in Bilingual Learners with Challenging Behavior. Cengher (2024). On Bilingualism: Why and How to Teach Two Languages to Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Cultural Responsiveness, Humility & Systemic Equity in ABA Deochand, Neil & Costello, Mack S. (2022). Building a Social Justice Framework for Cultural and Linguistic Diversity in ABA. Jimenez-Gomez, Corina & Beaulieu, L. (2022). Cultural responsiveness in applied behavior analysis: Research and practice. ABA Effectiveness & Need for Cultural Inclusion Yu, Qian; Li, Enyao; Li, Liguo; Liang, Weiyi (2020). Efficacy of Interventions Based on Applied Behavior Analysis for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta‑Analysis. Spreckley, Michele & Boyd, Roslyn (2009). Efficacy of Applied Behavioural Intervention in Preschool Children with Autism for Improving Cognitive, Language, and Adaptive Behavior: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Bonus resources Clinical Interviewing, by Sommers-Flanagan and Sommers-Flanagan (note 1: I know it's expensive, but older versions may be cheaper; note 2: this is an Amazon Associates link). Tobii Dynavox (the AAC tech that was discussed in the show). Looking for a pod-based CEU on this topic? Check out: Session 194, Inside JABA 12: Cultural Responsiveness in Applied Behavior Analysis. Sponsor Shoutouts! Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! Our newest sponsor: MindBodyBehavior's Certified Health Coach Program. If you're a BCBA looking to use your ABA skills to help people live healthier lifestyles, learn how to do it the right way, with expert instruction, mentoring, and guidance from Sarah Burby. Click here to learn more! HRIC Recruting. Cut out the middleman and speak directly with Barbara Voss, who's been placing BCBAs in great jobs all across the US for 15 years. Behavior University. Their mission is to provide university quality professional development for the busy Behavior Analyst. Learn about their CEU offerings, including their 8-hour Supervision Course, as well as their RBT offerings over at behavioruniversity.com/observations. Don't forget to use the coupon code, PODCAST to save at checkout!

Join Katie McHugh, a dedicated researcher in health routines, Claudia Dozier, a reinforcement schedule expert, and John Borrero, JABA's Editor-in-Chief, as they delve into innovative strategies for enhancing health routines for adults with disabilities. They discuss synchronous reinforcement schedules that occur in real-time, making activities like toothbrushing and bathing more manageable. The trio emphasizes the importance of collaboration with medical professionals and exploring emotional responses to improve outcomes. Tune in for insights into overcoming behavioral challenges and future research directions!

In Session 309, I welcome Dr. Lyndsy Coffield, Director of Client Success at Apollo Behavior, to share her unique journey in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and her groundbreaking work training law enforcement officers on autism awareness. Dr. Coffield's path into ABA began with an undergraduate degree in speech pathology, later becoming an RBT and eventually a BCBA. Today, she oversees intake and marketing at a growing clinic network in Georgia while also dedicating her research to improving police interactions with individuals on the autism spectrum. This episode explores the intersection of ABA careers, autism, and law enforcement training, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with bridging these worlds. What You'll Learn in This Episode Entering the ABA Field Dr. Coffield's journey from speech pathology to becoming a BCBA. Her leadership role at Apollo and overseeing client success in a multi-clinic system. Understanding Law Enforcement Culture Why credibility matters when teaching law enforcement officers about autism. Parallels between gaining parents' trust in ABA and gaining officers' trust in training. Police Academy Experiences Dr. Coffield's firsthand experiences at a Citizens Police Academy: ride-alongs, call centers, and unit training. Surprising insights into the hidden volume of crime and emergencies in her community. Autism and Law Enforcement Training Common challenges officers face when interacting with individuals on the spectrum. Misinterpretations—such as stimming being mistaken for drug use—and how they can escalate situations. Practical strategies: slowing down, assessing intent, and waiting for backup when needed. Applying Behavior Analysis to Autism Training How ABA principles help officers understand and support autistic individuals. Tips for officers: allowing response time, keeping safe distances, and recognizing autism traits. The Blue Envelope Project and other community initiatives improving interactions. De-Escalation Training in Action A success story from Salem, NH, where effective autism training helped officers de-escalate high-risk encounters. Why calm, compassionate approaches make a lasting impact in policing. Body Camera Footage as a Training Tool Dr. Coffield's dissertation analysis of 10 body cam videos involving autistic individuals. Key officer behaviors that worked: patience, spacing, and communication. Why both lecture-based training and Behavioral Skills Training (BST) are equally effective. Ongoing Autism and Law Enforcement Research Insights from Dr. Cofield's dissertation (available on PubQuest). The need for additional studies and real-world ride-along experiences. Encouragement for ABA professionals to get involved in police training efforts. Why This Conversation Matters The intersection of autism, ABA, and law enforcement is a critical area where misunderstandings can have serious consequences. Dr. Cofield's research and practical training insights provide a roadmap for safer, more empathetic, and more effective police interactions with autistic individuals. Whether you're an ABA professional, law enforcement officer, or advocate for the autism community, this episode offers practical takeaways and inspiration to make a difference. Resources & Links Mentioned Lyndsy's Dissertation The Blue Envelope Project Careers at Apollo Behavior Lyndsy's appearance on The Beyond the Science Podcast This episode is brought to you by the following sponsors: Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! HRIC Recruting. Cut out the middleman and speak directly with Barbara Voss, who's been placing BCBAs in great jobs all across the US for 15 years. CEUs from Behavioral Observations. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here. The Behavioral Toolbox. Check out our courses for school-based and other behavioral professionals, including our newest one, Motivational Interviewing: Getting Educator Buy-In. The inaugural ABA CON CEU cruise, which launches on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas from February 16–20, 2026. Learn more about this cruise here

Episode Overview In this episode, sleep expert Emily Varon returns to the Behavioral Observations Podcast to share her deep expertise in sleep improvement—especially within the autism community. Drawing from 15 years of experience, Emily emphasizes personalized approaches, the role of wearable technology, and the importance of sensitivity when discussing sleep challenges with families. She also discusses new research on screen time and its true impact on sleep latency, offering insights that can reshape how behavior analysts approach sleep-related interventions. Key Topics Covered Personalized Sleep Strategies Why one-size-fits-all sleep advice doesn't work. How Emily uses wearables like the Oura Ring to identify sleep patterns and triggers. Note: check this out if you want to see if the Whoop Strap is a wearable technology is for you. The role of self-reflection and data tracking in improving sleep. Sleep Hygiene in the Autism Community Sleep as a primary reinforcer and the role of environmental variables. Key elements of good sleep hygiene: consistent schedules, avoiding late-night exercise, and structured bedtime routines. How these strategies apply equally to neurotypical and autistic individuals, with additional sensitivity for pre-existing diagnoses. Screens, Blue Light, and Sleep Latency The evolution of research on blue light and melatonin suppression. Insights from Michael Gradizar's 2024 study showing only a minor, non-significant delay in sleep onset from screens. Why user behavior matters more than blue light itself—and how behavior analysts can address it. Sleep Research Gaps in Autism The distinction between medical and non-medical sleep researchers. Why more targeted studies in autism are needed, despite data collection challenges. Behavioral tendencies—rather than autism itself—as key factors in sleep disruption. Screen Time, Social Media, and Self-Regulation How apps are designed to maximize engagement and reinforce continued use. The impact of device removal on children's emotions and behavior. Differences in personality and susceptibility to "dopamine hits" from scrolling. Children's Sleep and Screen Time Variability Why short shows like Bluey may help some kids wind down, while disrupting others. Understanding sleep architecture and how disruptions affect mood and regulation. Real-world examples of activities (like bedtime reading) that can unintentionally delay sleep. Approaching Sleep Conversations with Families The importance of avoiding yes/no questions about sleep problems. Asking open-ended questions about sleep satisfaction. Building trust with families so they feel comfortable prioritizing sleep interventions. Next Steps for Listeners Special Offer: Use coupon code BXOB10 for 10% off The Sleep Collective course at readysetsleep.com. For BCBAs: Replace checkbox-style questions with open-ended ones about sleep satisfaction. Approach all autism-related cases assuming there may be underlying sleep challenges. For Families: Evaluate how screen time may be affecting your child's sleep quality and onset. Assess whether your current bedtime routines are truly effective. Links & Resources The Sleep Collective Course – Save 10% with code BXOB10 Emily's first appearance on the BOP in Session 247 Michael Gradisar's 2024 study on screen time and sleep latency Learn more about Emily Varon's work at readysetsleep.com Why We Sleep, by Matthew Walker Huge thanks to the following sponsors who keep the lights on! Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! CEUs from Behavioral Observations. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here. The Behavioral Toolbox. Check out our courses for school-based and other behavioral professionals, including our newest one, Motivational Interviewing: Getting Educator Buy-In. Behavior University. Their mission is to provide university quality professional development for the busy Behavior Analyst. Learn about their CEU offerings, including their 8-hour Supervision Course, as well as their RBT offerings over at behavioruniversity.com/observations. Don't forget to use the coupon code, PODCAST to save at checkout!

In this episode of the Behavioral Observations Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Brady Phelps, about a topic that has perplexed, and perhaps captivated both mainstream Psychology as well as pop culture: Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). Our wide-ranging conversation explored the intersection of behavior analysis, mental health, and trauma, with a special focus on how we can understand DID through a scientific, behavioral lens. Brady's Career Journey Brady shared how he discovered behavior analysis almost by accident as an undergrad at Utah State University, under the mentorship of Carl Cheney. After a long academic career, Brady retired in 2021 but remains actively involved in the field. He's currently developing an Experimental Analysis of Behavior (EAB) toolkit with Dr. Steve Eversole at Behavior Development Solutions, and he's also writing a textbook on learning and behavior designed to be accessible to 20-year-olds. Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder Behaviorally We dove deep into Brady's research on DID, originally published in 2000. His goal was to approach DID from a behavior-analytic perspective, not through traditional psychoanalytic theory. As we discussed, DID has evolved from being characterized by dramatic behavioral shifts to more subtle, self-reported identity disruptions. Brady argued that the identities themselves are better understood as reified constructs—products of distorted tacting that contacts reinforcement—rather than discrete psychological entities. Trauma, Dissociation, and Behavioral Function Brady emphasized the importance of not dismissing trauma reports, while also cautioning against assuming trauma automatically leads to DID. We talked about avoidance behaviors, escape contingencies, and how dissociation might function as a response to overwhelming experiences. He brought up examples like Cotard's Syndrome to show how distorted tacting can manifest in extreme ways. Rethinking Diagnostic Criteria for DID We discussed research into amnesiac barriers, such as the Concealed Information Test, which shows people might learn something even if they claim not to remember it. These findings, Brady suggested, should prompt a re-evaluation of how DID is diagnosed, particularly the differences between the Post-Trauma Model and the Social-Cognitive Model—the latter of which emphasizes social reinforcement and therapist influence in shaping alternate identities. Therapy Techniques and Reinforcement Contingencies Brady detailed how some therapists use techniques like "roll calls" or even suggesting names to clients in session. While these methods may sound extreme, they reflect how therapist behavior can inadvertently reinforce identity fragmentation. We also discussed Robert Kohlenberg's 1973 study on behavioral repertoires, which demonstrated how social reinforcement shaped client behavior across different identity presentations. The Sybil Case and Media Influence We revisited the infamous Sybil case, which helped popularize DID in the 20th century. Despite being exposed as fraudulent, Sybil's story continues to shape public and clinical views of the disorder. We also talked about more recent media portrayals—from TikTok to a 2023 Scientific American article—and how social media can reinforce the performance of alternate identities, especially among vulnerable populations. Behavior Analysis in Mental Health Brady and I wrapped up with a discussion on how behavior analysts can contribute to mental health conversations. He encouraged new BCBAs to collaborate with non-behavioral colleagues while staying rooted in behavioral principles. Above all, he emphasized balancing empathy with scientific rigor—understanding people without falling into speculative mentalism. Show Notes and Resources Brady (2025). Dissociative Identity Disorder: An Analysis of the Behaviors and Contingencies Brady (2000). Dissociative Identity Disorder: The Relevance of Behavior Analysis Kohlenberg (1973). Behavioristic approach to multiple personality: A case study Wakatama (2024). Court allows witness with dissociative identity disorder to give evidence in multiple personalities Explore the EAB Toolkit at Behavior Development Solutions Lester (2023). A New Therapy for Multiple Personality Disorder Helps a Woman with 12 Selves Who was Sybil? The true story behind her multiple personalities 📢 Sponsor shoutouts: Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! CEUs from Behavioral Observations. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here. The Behavioral Toolbox. Check out our courses for school-based and other behavioral professionals, including our newest one, Motivational Interviewing: Getting Educator Buy-In. The inaugural ABA CON CEU cruise, which launches on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas from February 16–20, 2026. Learn more about this cruise here

Dr. John Guercio returns to the Behavioral Observations Podcast for his third appearance, bringing his extensive experience and fresh insights into the world of adult services in behavior analysis. In this episode, John and Matt discuss the vital, yet often overlooked, field of supporting adults with autism and other developmental disabilities—particularly those with severe behavioral challenges. They explore: John's new leadership role at The Arc of the Ozarks The Applied Behavior Analysis Center The development of a new adult-specific RBT training program His latest book on staff training in adult service settings Key findings from his recent research on enhancing data collection in residential facilities The systemic and practical challenges of working in group homes and ISLs Throughout the conversation, Dr. Guercio emphasizes the importance of dignity, choice, and inclusion, and provides practical strategies for training and retaining staff who work in high-demand settings. 🧠 About the Guest: Dr. John Guercio is the Vice President of Crisis Services and ABA Services at The Arc of the Ozarks. He has over three decades of experience in adult services and is a published researcher, trainer, and advocate for ethical and effective behavioral interventions for adults. Dr. Guercio is also the author of the Staff Training Manual: Staff Training Strategies for Adult Service Settings, and co-creator of a new 40-hour RBT training program specific to adult services. 📚 Resources & Links: John's Behavioral Relaxation Training episode (CEU available!) The paper we discussed: Guercio, et al. (2025): Blending Staff Preference Assessments and Contingent Reinforcement to Enhance Data Collection in a Residential Facility for Adults with Severe Aggressive Behavior Reid and Parsons (2006): Motivating Human Service Staff Open Future Learning Facebook page The Performance Diagnostic Checklist Daniels and Bailey (2016). Performance Management 17 Therapeutic Communication Skills Dr. Karyn Harvey, Trauma-Informed Supports for People with IDD Dr. Paulie Gavoni: Positional Authority Ain't Leadership Dr. John Austin on Results (Supervision CEU available) Dr. Amy Edmonson: The Fearless Organization Reid (1992). The need to train more behavior analysts to be better applied researchers 📢 Sponsor shoutouts: Frontera. Consider taking a demo of Frontera's Assessment Builder and see how the ethical application of AI technologies can help you serve clients and save you time! Your first assessment report is free. And if you use code BOP25 you'll get an additional five assessments for just $100. So head to fronterahealth.com to check it out! CEUs from Behavioral Observations. Learn from your favorite podcast guests while you're commuting, walking the dog, or whatever else you do while listening to podcasts. New events are being added all the time, so check them out here. HRIC Recruting. Cut out the middleman and speak directly with Barbara Voss, who's been placing BCBAs in great jobs all across the US for 15 years. Behavior University. Their mission is to provide university quality professional development for the busy Behavior Analyst. Learn about their CEU offerings, including their 8-hour Supervision Course, as well as their RBT offerings over at behavioruniversity.com/observations. Don't forget to use the coupon code, PODCAST to save at checkout! The inaugural ABA CON CEU cruise, which launches on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas from February 16–20, 2026. Learn more about this cruise here