40 SOCIAL JUSTICE

An Overdue and Urgent Topic for Behavior Analysis

Abstract

Behavior analysis has been concerned with the betterment of humanity since its inception. It is entirely congruent with its foundational principles and historical applications to focus on social justice. Furthermore, it is inextricably linked to social validity; we seek to have our work valued and for the changes that occur to be indicated as meaningful by those we serve to assist (Kazdin; 1977; Wolf, 1978). Behavior analysts need to broaden their lens to include social justice in the analysis of individual and social problems and in the training of the next generation of behavior analysts. Like other newer areas receiving intense attention in the field, such as compassionate care, interprofessional collaboration, and cultural humility, social justice is an essential focus. Much of the work that has been done in allied fields serves as instruction for us, and our own field’s rich demonstrations of effectiveness provides confidence that we can learn more about this as well. As Skinner (1948) said, “It is not a question of starting. The start has been made. It’s a question of what’s to be done from now on.” (p. 257). As we strive to understand and change the world, we will be echoing the optimism of our predecessors and expanding the range of impacts behavior analysis has had on all of humanity.

Keywords

social justice

police brutality

systemic inequality

compassion

compassionate care

cultural humility

cultural responsivity

interprofessional collaboration

social work

procedural justice

interactional justice

privilege

marginalization

demographics

About

Mary Jane Weiss