Publishing in Journals Outside the Box: Attaining Mainstream Prominence Requires Demonstrations of Mainstream...

Area of Science:

• Behavioral Science
• Pediatric Medicine

Background:

• Pediatric medical care is a significant cultural practice in the USA.
• Behavior analytic research can achieve mainstream relevance by publishing in pediatric journals.
• This approach can elevate the prominence of behavior analysis in pediatric settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide examples and lessons learned from publishing behavior analytic papers in pediatric journals.
• To illustrate strategies for increasing the mainstream relevance of behavior analysis within pediatric settings.

Main Methods:

• The article describes practical experiences and insights gained from submitting behavior analytic research to pediatric medical journals.
• It highlights the importance of adapting communication strategies for pediatric providers and families.
• It addresses the need to educate pediatric editors and reviewers on behavior analytic research methodologies.

Main Results:

• Child behavior problems in pediatrics are socially important, often high-frequency, low-intensity, and responsive to behavioral interventions.
• A "colloquialized version of learning theory" is effective when communicating with pediatric professionals and families.
• Pediatricians may have limited familiarity with behavior analytic research designs.
• Journal submission rejections can serve as opportunities for educating editorial staff.

Conclusions:

• Publishing in pediatric journals is a viable strategy for integrating behavior analysis into mainstream pediatric practice.
• Effective communication, including simplified explanations of learning theory, is crucial for acceptance.
• Addressing knowledge gaps regarding research designs and leveraging the review process can foster greater understanding and adoption of behavior analytic approaches in pediatrics.