Translational and Applied
Behavioral Science Labs

Our research in the area of early behavioral intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder focuses on evaluating generative instruction to promote behavioral variability, acquisition and transfer of verbal operants, strategies for addressing of challenging behaviors in natural environments, and the use of technology such as wearable devices to support behavior across environments. This work is conducted in clinical and community settings.

We are interested in evaluating methods of improving staff and caregiver implementation of behavioral interventions. Some of the methods evaluated include telehealth/remote delivery of instruction and the use of technological supports for behavior change agents. When working with caregivers, our research team works in partnership with caregivers, community partners, and other stakeholders to develop interventions that will meet the needs of the community. In collaboration with colleagues at several institutions, we are currently conducting NIH-funded research evaluating technological tools to support the implementation of behavioral interventions.

This area of inquiry seeks to expand the knowledge base of cultural responsiveness within behavior analysis in the areas of service delivery, training of students, and supervision. This work is conducted in part through a collaboration with Dr. Lauren Beaulieu, with whom Dr. Corina Jimenez-Gomez developed the Cultural Competence for Behavior Analysts course. 

We collaborate with Dr. Chris Podlesnik on research evaluating reinforcement processes, behavioral flexibility, reversal learning, and sensitivity to social consequences in translational studies. We are particularly interested in examining the discriminative and strengthening properties of stimuli, both in laboratory settings and with clinically-relevant participants.