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Compassion: The Eighth Dimension of Applied Behavior Analysis.

Ashley M Penney¹, Katherine J Bateman², Yev Veverka²

¹The University of Washington Autism Center, University of Washington, Box 357920, 1701 NE Columbia Road, Seattle, WA USA.

Behavior Analysis in Practice

|April 20, 2026

Summary

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) can improve lives, but concerns exist about its application. This article proposes adding compassion to ABA to ensure client-centered, responsive interventions.

Keywords:

Applied behavior analysis Autism Beneficence Compassion Empathy

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Area of Science:

Behavioral Science
Psychology

Background:

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has a long history of success in behavior change.
Recent concerns highlight potential deviations from client-centered practices in ABA.
The field faces criticism regarding the application of behavioral principles.

Purpose of the Study:

To propose a reconceptualization of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
To integrate compassion as a core dimension of ABA practice.
To guide behavior analysts toward more responsive and collaborative interventions.

Main Methods:

Conceptual analysis of ABA principles.
Literature review on current practices and criticisms.
Proposal for a revised framework for ABA.

Main Results:

The current practice of ABA may sometimes overlook client-centered outcomes.
Adding compassion can realign ABA with its original goals.
A compassionate approach fosters collaboration and responsiveness.

Conclusions:

Reconceptualizing ABA to include compassion is essential for ethical practice.
Compassion enhances the client-centered nature of ABA interventions.
Behavior analysts should embrace feedback to improve practice.