Does Applied Behavior Analysis Violate Principles of Ethics and Bioethics? A Response to Wilkenfeld and McCarthy (2020)

Abstract

Wilkenfeld and McCarthy’s 2020 article, “Ethical Concerns with Applied Behavior Analysis for Autism Spectrum ‘Disorder’,” is part of a growing line of peer-reviewed articles that are critical of interventions based on the principles of applied behavior analysis (ABA) for autistics/individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Throughout this article, the authors make claims that ABA-based intervention is abusive, coercive, and results in negative outcomes (e.g., Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) for autistic/individuals diagnosed with ASD utilizing a bioethics framework. More specifically, the purpose of this article is to provide an analysis and discussion of Wilkenfeld and McCarthy’s rationales and conclusions by highlighting areas of agreement and concern, and those requiring additional clarification. We hope this analysis will help continue progressing the field of ABA-based interventions for autistic children and their families, advance discussions among behavior analysts and their consumers, and underscore pathways forward for all involved.