mindfulrambles.blogspot.com/2018/02/whats-function-sensory.htmlThe term “sensory” is frequently referenced in both the world of Occupational Therapy and Applied Behavior Analysis, two worlds that have historically relied upon differing technologies and principles. The alignment of two unique but prominent fields in pursuit of understanding the word “sensory” indicates that there is great value to be discovered in unearthing the collaborative potential between BCBAs and OTs. This article considers the definition of “sensory” from both perspectives, highlights the differences and similarities, and identifies a common ground from which we can understand the role all things sensory play in behavior. We conclude by offering five strategies for enhancing collaboration between BCBAs and OTs in pursuit of a comprehensive, evidence-based approach for working with children with sensory needs.
Sensory Defined: The primary disparity between the behavior analytic and occupational therapeutic understanding of the word ‘sensory’ lies in its’ definition. In the world of Applied Behavior Analysis, the word ‘sensory’ refers to a possible function of behavior, meaning that the behavior occurs for sensory-related reasons. Behaviors maintained by sensory functions are further divided into two categories. First, a behavior might feel good to an individual, so he or she frequently engages in the behavior in order to experience a pleasurable physical sensation; the presence or absence of other people is irrelevant. Or, a learner may engage in a behavior to alleviate pain or cope with a stressful situation, also independent of the presence or absence of others. Given this, Behavior Analysts approach treatment by first ruling out possible medical causes and then identifying functionally equivalent, appropriate replacement behaviors for instruction. In contrast, the word ‘sensory’, as considered from a Occupational Therapy perspective, focuses on arousal and regulation. When an individual is in a state of low or high arousal, OTs believe that the brain is unable to organize all the sensory input it receives from the environment appropriately, thus resulting in the demonstration of sensory-seeking behaviors. OTs look to balance arousal levels through self regulation. Sensory strategies are implemented with the intention of changing levels of alertness to reach a state of sensory integration, in other words a state where the individual is able to organize the input received from the environment. Occupational Therapists find that with the ability to self-regulate comes greater development in other domains of learning. Identifying Commonalities: Although behavioral analytic and occupational therapy professionals embrace differing methodologies and principles, as described previously, it is important to recognize commonalities between the fields that can be used to build a collaborative foundation. First, both OTs and BCBAs value individualized treatment approaches with a recognition that each person’s triggers, behaviors, and environment are unique and must be viewed as such in order to achieve progress. In addition, both professions analyze the environment in order to inform treatment decisions while carefully considering underlying biological and medical variables that may be impacting the client. BCBAs and OTs both work with a similar goal of achieving socially significant change by supporting their clients to lead the happiest, healthiest, and fullest lives possible. Perhaps most notably, BCBAs and OTs alike are dedicated to a code of ethics and constantly seek to align their work to the standards outlined by their professional organizations. Given the increasing number of individuals who have achieved both credentials, there seems be great value that can be drawn from a collaborative, teamwork approach. Members of a comprehensive team can enhance and improve practice by adopting beneficial strategies developed by occupational therapists and implementing them in a behaviorally sound way. Fortunately, you don’t need to have both credentials to achieve this goal. By following the steps outlined, teams can embrace sensory interventions in an evidence-based manner consistent with the beliefs of both occupational therapy and behavioral science 5 Strategies for Enhancing Collaboration Between BCBA’s and OT’s
Conclusion Sensory-based approaches represent a “hot topic issue” in the fields of Occupational Therapy and Applied Behavior Analysis. Professionals with differing backgrounds and philosophies often find themselves working together as members of comprehensive teams to support children with disabilities. In order to improve outcomes our learners, BCBAs and OTs must develop a common, evidence-based understanding of sensory interventions that compliments each other’s fields, particularly since the use of such practice is mandated in both the BCBA’s and OT’s code of ethics. According to BCBA’s code of ethics, “clients have a right to effective treatment (i.e., based on the research literature and adapted to the individual client). Behavior analysts always have the obligation to advocate for and educate the client about scientifically supported, most-effective treatment procedures (Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts,” p.8, 2016).” Similarly, according to OT’s code of ethics, “OT’s use, to the extent possible, evaluation, planning, intervention techniques, assessments, and therapeutic equipment that are evidence based, current, and within the recognized scope of occupational therapy (“Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics,” p.2, 2015).” By enhancing collaboration and sparking conversation between BCBAs and OTs, we can develop these truly effective consultation strategies, which directly translate to improved practice across professions and and progress amongst shared clients. References Behavior Analyst Certification Board (2016). Professional and Ethical Compliance Code for Behavior Analysts. pp. 1-24. Retrieved from https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2017 /09/170706-compliance-code-english.pdf AOTA (2015). Occupational therapy code of ethics. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, vol (69), pp. 1-8. doi:10.5014. Photo Credit: Mindful Rambles mindfulrambles.blogspot.com/2018/02/whats-function-sensory.html No Copyright Intended.
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