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Using Peer-Led Behavioral Skills Training to Teach Trainees Active and Empathic Listening Skills in a Virtual
Valerie Law1, Laura B Turner2, Adam T Brewer3
1Journey Found Inc, Manchester, CT USA.
Behavior Analysis in Practice
|April 20, 2026
Summary
Peer-led behavioral skills training effectively enhanced active and empathic listening skills in behavior analytic trainees. Expert feedback further supported skill acquisition and generalization for all participants.
Area of Science:
- Behavior Analysis
- Psychology
- Communication Skills Training
Background:
- Active and empathic listening are vital for behavior analytic practitioners.
- Limited training methods and data exist for developing these interpersonal skills in trainees.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel, peer-led behavioral skills training (BST) for enhancing active and empathic listening.
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of peer-led BST for interpersonal skill development.
Main Methods:
- A concurrent multiple baseline across participants design was employed.
- Six behavior analytic trainees participated in three dyads, receiving peer-led BST.
- An expert-led feedback session was provided to one dyad.
Main Results:
- Peer-led BST demonstrated positive and generalized effects on listening skills for four participants (two dyads).
- Expert-led feedback resulted in immediate skill acquisition and generalization for the remaining two participants (one dyad).
Conclusions:
- Peer-led BST is a feasible and acceptable method for training interpersonal skills in behavior analysis.
- Explicitly teaching socially valid interpersonal skills is crucial for practitioners in diverse settings.
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