PSY FPX 7421 Assessment 3 Cognitive Psychology Theories Applied to Behavior Analysis

Student Name

Capella University

PSY FPX 7421 Cognitive/Affective Psychology

Prof. Name:

Date

Cognitive Psychology Theories Applied to Behavior Analysis

Problem-solving and creativity, decision-making and reasoning, as well as human and artificial intelligence, are three distinct yet interconnected areas within the workplace that significantly influence our daily professional activities. As professionals in applied behavior analysis, particularly in providing clinical services to individuals with autism, it is crucial to develop proficiency in these areas when collaborating with colleagues and working with clients. These topics can be applied both independently and collaboratively in our work to enhance our professional capabilities. For instance, when managing challenging behaviors like aggression, it is essential to possess strong decision-making and problem-solving skills to minimize harm to clients and others. In some cases, we must also be creative in devising effective solutions to alter clients’ behavior. Daily, we combine our human intelligence with artificial intelligence tools to modify client behaviors and create plans aimed at improving their overall quality of life. Given the rapid growth of the behavior analysis field, it is our responsibility to leverage problem-solving and creativity, decision-making and reasoning, along with human and artificial intelligence, to develop as competent and high-quality professionals.

Problem-Solving and Creativity

Problem-solving and creativity were first explored in the field of psychology during the 1920s by a group of psychologists known as Gestalt psychologists. These psychologists found that when confronted with certain problems, humans often use insight to find solutions (Condell et al., 2010). From the theory of problem-solving, the theory of creativity and divergent thinking emerged. Creativity is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects, abilities, properties, and behaviors utilized to solve problems (Jordanous & Keller, 2016). Divergent thinking refers to the process of generating novel solutions to loosely defined problems (Gibson, Folley, & Park, 2009). Theories of problem-solving, creativity, and divergent thinking can all be applied to professional work in the behavior analysis field.

In neuroscience, a connection is frequently made between creativity and certain mental health disorders. Vulnerabilities in individuals with mental health conditions can either impair or enhance their creativity and problem-solving abilities (Carson, 2014). Further research and brain imaging studies should be conducted to investigate the relationship between mental health disorders such as hypomania and schizophrenia, and how these conditions influence creativity.

Affective states can impact cognitive performance related to problem-solving and creativity. For example, if someone is experiencing a depressed affect, their problem-solving abilities may be compromised because their brain cannot function at its full potential. Conversely, if someone is in a happy affect and flow state, their creativity may be heightened, leading to more effective problem-solving.

PSY FPX 7421 Assessment 3 Cognitive Psychology Theories Applied to Behavior Analysis

Problem-solving is relevant to culturally diverse populations because, when working with individuals from different cultural backgrounds, it is necessary to collaborate to find effective, culturally competent solutions. Divergent thinking is also crucial for applying creative solutions to problems. Using divergent thinking to transcend cultural differences and think innovatively can result in effective problem-solving.

An example of an ethical issue related to problem-solving might involve a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who creates a treatment plan based on a client’s assessment results. However, the client’s caregiver may express that they do not want a dressing goal targeted during therapy sessions due to cultural beliefs that consider dressing a private matter. The ethical dilemma arises because the assessment results indicate that the client has deficits in dressing skills. In this situation, the BCBA would need to problem-solve and devise a creative solution to address the dressing goal while respecting the client’s culture. The BCBA could discuss the concerns with the family and decide to use parent training to teach the parent how to implement a dressing task analysis for their child. This ethical dilemma aligns with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts, specifically code 1.07 concerning cultural responsiveness and diversity (Behavior Analyst Certification Board, 2020).

Decision-Making and Reasoning

Theories related to decision-making and reasoning have origins in early philosophers like Socrates, who explored conflict resolution. Modern research on decision-making began in the 1950s when cognitive scientists developed theories for cognitive tasks such as perception, memory recognition, and categorization (Busemeyer, 2015). Decision-making and reasoning help explain behavior by deepening our understanding of how an individual’s perception and life experiences influence their decisions. A person’s thought process can be affected by internal and external factors, which ultimately shape their decisions. As behavior analysis professionals, by manipulating one’s environment, we can potentially influence their thought processes and decisions.

Neuroscience research has provided explanations and support for theories of decision-making and reasoning. This research has focused on how an individual’s preferences influence their decisions (Yoon et al., 2012). Neuroscience findings have been applied in various settings, including consumer behavior, business organizations, and healthcare, providing objective data on internal cognitive processes and the factors that drive decision-making.Decision-making and reasoning, like problem-solving and creativity, are influenced by an individual’s affect. For example, a person experiencing anger or frustration may be more likely to make impulsive decisions without considering all the relevant factors. In contrast, a person in a calm state is more likely to make logical decisions by carefully weighing the available evidence.

PSY FPX 7421 Assessment 3 Cognitive Psychology Theories Applied to Behavior Analysis

Different cultures utilize distinct values and beliefs to guide decision-making, using those same values to justify their reasoning. For instance, Japanese culture highly values respect for elders and their wisdom, leading to decisions that may require elder consultation. In contrast, American culture places a high value on capitalism and financial gain, so an American businessman might seek advice from a financial expert before making a business decision.

An example of an ethical dilemma related to decision-making and reasoning pertains to code 2.14 of the Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts, which involves selecting, designing, and implementing behavior-change interventions (Behavior Analyst Certification Board, 2020). An ethical issue could arise if a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) under a BCBA’s supervision fails to implement a behavior-change intervention correctly. The BCBA would be responsible for providing the RBT with guidance on correctly implementing the intervention while maintaining a positive working relationship. If the BCBA does not address the errors, the client could face adverse effects from an incorrectly implemented intervention. The BCBA must decide when and how to intervene, explain the rationale for the intervention, and outline a correction plan for the RBT.

Human and Artificial Intelligence

Human intelligence has existed since the dawn of humanity, while artificial intelligence is a relatively new concept, first emerging in the 1950s. Both human and artificial intelligence can be utilized to modify behavior and provide assistance where needed. Humans can expand their knowledge and intelligence through experience and education. Similarly, artificial intelligence can enhance an individual’s life by offering support in areas where human knowledge may be limited. In behavior analysis, a combination of human and artificial intelligence is employed to develop as professionals and create effective treatment plans for clients.

Neuroscience plays a role in both human and artificial intelligence by explaining individual differences in human intelligence. Neuroscience research examines environmental, genetic, and physiological factors that influence intelligence scores on standardized tests (Deary, Penke, & Johnson, 2010). While genetics may be unchangeable, an individual’s environment can be improved to enhance intelligence and learning opportunities. Neuroscience has also contributed significantly to developing artificial intelligence, with algorithms used in machines and computers heavily relying on neuroscience research on how the human mind translates into artificial intelligence (Hassabis et al., 2017).

PSY FPX 7421 Assessment 3 Cognitive Psychology Theories Applied to Behavior Analysis

Like problem-solving, creativity, decision-making, and reasoning, an individual’s affect impacts their intelligence. For example, a person experiencing sadness may perform less effectively than someone who is happy because their emotions influence their cognitive functions. However, artificial intelligence is not affected by emotions or mood changes, making it less susceptible to the variations in performance seen in humans.Human and artificial intelligence affect different cultures in various ways. Some cultures may place a higher value on human intelligence, while others may prioritize artificial intelligence. Additionally, less developed cultures may lack access to artificial intelligence, limiting their capabilities in this area. Cultural beliefs and reasoning about the origins of artificial intelligence also play a role in how it is perceived and utilized.

An ethical dilemma related to intelligence involves a BCBA practicing within their scope of competence. This ethical dilemma is outlined by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts, specifically code 1.05 concerning practicing within one’s scope of competence (Behavior Analyst Certification Board, 2020). When working with clients and families, BCBAs may face requests for interventions that fall outside their expertise. For instance, a family might request that therapeutic horseback riding be included as an intervention to decrease a client’s challenging behaviors. However, if the BCBA is not trained in therapeutic horseback riding, and if this intervention is not evidence-based for reducing challenging behaviors, the BCBA would need to decline the request while maintaining a positive rapport with the family to avoid compromising treatment efficacy.

Conclusion

In the field of applied behavior analysis, professionals face daily challenges that require quick and effective responses to best serve their clients. Collaboration with other members of the client’s treatment team is essential to ensure comprehensive care that enhances the client’s overall quality of life. By applying evidence-based practices and theories related to problem-solving and creativity, decision-making and reasoning, and human and artificial intelligence, professionals can provide competent and effective services to their clients.

References

Behavior Analyst Certification Board. (2020). Ethics code for behavior analysts. Littleton, CO: Author.

Busemeyer, J. R. (2015). Cognitive science contributions to decision science. Cognition, 135, 43-46. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cognition.2014.11.010

Carson, S. (2014). Leveraging the “mad genius” debate: Why we need a neuroscience of creativity and psychopathology. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 8, 771-771. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnhum.2014.00771

Condell, J., Wade, J., Galway, L., McBride, M., Gormley, P., Brennan, J., & S

ayers, J. (2010). Evaluation of the impact of ‘technoference’ on the parenting of toddlers. BMC Public Health, 10, 1-15. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-020-09478-7

Deary, I. J., Penke, L., & Johnson, W. (2010). The neuroscience of human intelligence differences. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 11(3), 201-211. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2793

Gibson, C., Folley, B. S., & Park, S. (2009). Enhanced divergent thinking and creativity in musicians: A behavioral and near-infrared spectroscopy study. Brain and Cognition, 69(1), 162-169. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bandc.2008.06.009