Scientific Framework for Compassion and Social Justice

A Scientific Framework for Compassion and Social Justice provides readers with an in-depth understanding of the behavior analytic principles that maintain social justice issues and highlights behavior analytic principles that promote self-awareness and compassion. Expanding on the goals of the field of applied behavioral analysis (ABA), this collection of essays from subject-matter experts in various fields combines personal experiences, scientific explanations, and effective strategies to promote a better existence; a better world. Chapters investigate the self-imposed barriers that contribute to human suffering and offer scientific explanations as to how the environment can systematically be shaped and generate a sociocultural system that promotes harmony, equality, fulfilment, and love. The goal of this text is to help the reader focus overwhelming feelings of confusion and upheaval into action and to make a stand for social justice while mobilizing others to take value-based actions. The lifelong benefit of these essays extends beyond ABA practitioners to readers in gender studies, diversity studies, education, public health, and other mental health fields.

"From mindfulness to income inequality to urban planning, Sadavoy and Zube’s ambitious tome is a must read for all behavior analysts! These essays are filled with ideas on how to incorporate compassion into our work, and how the science of behavior can be applied to a wide range of critical social issues. If you want to know what Love has to do with it, and how behavior analysis can indeed change the world, this is a great place to start."Bridget A. Taylor, PsyD, BCBA-D, Alpine Learning Group"The field of behavior analysis has waited a long time for a book like this, almost too long, but it’s right on time. The content serves as the beginnings to an actionable methodology for anyone ready to embrace the science of behavior analysis as a powerful vehicle for positive social change. Threaded together by themes of compassion, humility, and justice, this book arrives as a call to action for all of us to reflect on our own values and beliefs and how they inform our work as practitioners of behavior analysis. Undoubtedly, this is an essential reading for everyone in our field and at all levels."Nasiah Cirincione-Ulezi, EdD, BCBA, CEO & founder, ULEZI, LLC"Skinner's vision of behavior analysis was that it was a generic science that would one day be seen to be relevant for all human behavior. Clearly that vision has not been realized. Behavior analysis has flourished under one tail of the normal distribution but it has not often ventured very far out and underthe dome of that distribution. At least that is how the field is viewed by most people outside of it. Needed are demonstrations that make good on Skinner's vision and this book fits the bill perfectly. The expanse of its conceptual diversity is unmatched by any behavior analytic books I have in my extensive collection. The book is timely without being trendy and could ultimately serve as a go to resource for persons interested in behavior analytic perspectives on contemporary, cultural, and professional issues."Patrick C. Friman, PhD, ABPP, vice president of Behavioral Health, Boys Town; clinical professor of Pediatrics, UNMC

Jacob A. Sadavoy, QBA, BCBA, has 20 years of behavior analytic experience improving socially significant outcomes in schools, centers, businesses, hospitals, and homes in more than 15 different countries.Michelle L. Zube, MA, BCBA, has been in the field of behavior analysis for over 15 years consulting for schools and businesses both locally and internationally. She believes in the utility of the science and its broader applications for meaningful and sustainable change.