Understanding Lived Experiences: Harnessing Qualitative Research In Positive Behaviour Support And Applied Behaviour Analysis

BCBA CEUs: 1 QABA CEUs: 1 IBAO CEUs: 1 This panel will explore the important role of qualitative research in shaping positive behaviour support (PBS) and applied behaviour analysis (ABA) for individuals with disabilities. Qualitative methodologies offer new ways to understand the diverse experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities and their families and care teams, as part of the provision of PBS and ABA. However, the use of qualitative research is less common in PBS and ABA. Qualitative research may help researchers and practitioners assess the social validity of PBS and ABA-based interventions and supports; that is, the degree to which proposed goals of interventions are viewed as important, the strategies included in intervention programs and plans are viewed as acceptable, and the outcomes achieved through PBS and ABA are viewed as meaningful. Qualitative research can also help researchers identify the potential barriers and enablers to effective PBS and ABA practice. Panellists will discuss how they have used qualitative research methods to amplify the voices of people with disabilities and their families, understand the needs of the workforce, and drive actionable strategies within PBS and ABA in the USA, Australia and New Zealand.