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Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis for Behavior Analysts
James William Diller1, Clare Marie Mehta2
1Eastern Connecticut State University, Willimantic, CT USA.
Behavior Analysis in Practice
|June 22, 2026
Summary
Interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) offers behavior analysts a qualitative method to enhance applied behavior analysis (ABA) research and service delivery. This approach can expand the scope and improve the quality of ABA practices.
Area of Science:
- Behavior Analysis
- Qualitative Research Methods
Background:
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) primarily utilizes quantitative methods.
- There is a need for qualitative approaches to enrich understanding within ABA.
Purpose of the Study:
- Introduce Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to behavior analysts.
- Highlight the value of IPA for ABA practice and research.
- Explore potential applications and limitations of IPA in ABA.
Main Methods:
- A step-by-step description of the IPA methodology.
- Discussion of IPA's application within the ABA field.
- Consideration of limitations and suggestions for adoption.
Main Results:
- IPA provides a structured qualitative approach valuable for behavior analysts.
- Potential applications span various aspects of ABA practice and research.
- Successful incorporation requires understanding potential limitations.
Conclusions:
- Integrating IPA can significantly expand the scope of behavior-analytic research.
- The use of IPA has the potential to improve the quality of behavior-analytic service delivery.
- IPA offers a complementary methodology for advancing ABA.
Keywords:
Behavior analysisBurnoutInterpretive phenomenological analysisQualitative researchTreatment goalsMore Related Videos
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