As a future ABA professional, understanding why the field of behavior analysis differs from other psychology fields is important. Behavior analysts use objective andbehavioristicstatements to describe...

As a future ABA professional, understanding why the field of behavior analysis differs from other psychology fields is important. Behavior analysts use objective andbehavioristicstatements to describe phenomena they observe. At this point in your studies, it is important to start considering the impact ofmentalisticstatements in your vocabulary to help you to begin thinking like a behavior analyst.

Instructions

Your instructor will share the Mentalism and Radical Behaviorism Template you will use to complete this assignment.

Complete the following in the provided table:

• Column 1: Identify whether the statement is mentalistic or behavioristic for each scenario.




• Column 2: Explain the reasoning behind your choices. Some of the scenarios are similar and you may reuse your justification in multiple scenarios—but you must restate the explanation for each scenario.




• Column 3: Provide a behavioristic explanation as an alternative for each of the mentalistic explanations you identify.

Answer the following questions below the table. Each answer should be no more than two paragraphs.

• How does a behavior analytic approach differ from other fields of psychology?




• What is the problem with a behavior analyst using a mentalistic approach?




• Why is it important for a behavior analyst to use a behavioristic approach and not use a mentalistic approach in their practice?

Refer to the Mentalism and Radical Behaviorism rubric to ensure you understand the grading criteria for this assignment.

Additional Requirements

Your assignment should also meet the following requirements:

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  Written communication: Should be free of errors that detract from the overall message.




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  Resources: You are not expected to include references other than your textbook.




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  Length: 2–3 double-spaced pages, in addition to the title page and references page.

Competencies Measured

By successfully completing this assignment, you will demonstrate your proficiency in the following course competencies and scoring guide criteria:

• Competency 3: Distinguish between different branches in the field of behavior analysis.








• Identify correctly four or five of the statements as either mentalistic or behavioristic.




• Explain the reasons for the behaviors chosen.




• Describe alternative behavioristic explanations for the mentalistic statements.




• Explain how the behavior analytic approach is different from most other psychology fields.




• Explain the problem with a behavior analyst using a mentalistic approach.




• Explain why it is important for a behavior analyst to use a behavior analytic approach.








• Competency 4: Communicate in a manner that is scholarly and consistent with expectations for professionals in the field of psychology.








• Demonstrate an academic writing style through well-organized prose that follows assignment guidelines.




• Demonstrate compliance with APA style and referencing guidelines.