What does a Behavior Analyst do?

Behavior Analysts assist individuals who experience behavioral difficulties. This role manifests in several ways, depending on the organization. In schools, Behavior Analysts assist teachers in addressing a student’s behavioral challenges. In residential settings, they might work closely with residents to provide direct support. This position typically involves observing an individual’s points of difficulty and crafting a treatment plan based on their unique needs.

Behavior Analyst skills and qualifications

Some essential attributes to list in your Board Certified Behavior Analyst job description include:

• Good evaluation skills to assess client needs

• A strong sense of compassion and patience when interacting with individuals facing behavioral challenges

• An understanding of federal and state laws relating to behavior analysis

• The ability to create clear reports and maintain organized records to display findings and track client progress

• Strong planning skills to develop treatment practices that meet client goals

Behavior Analyst experience requirements

Behavior Analysts typically spend years learning and training in different environments, such as schools, private homes or hospitals, before entering the professional world. Under supervision, they’re acquainted with various developmental disorders and treatment plans. For this reason, many employers only require candidates to have one year of experience, but some may require as many as three.

Behavior Analyst education and training requirements

In most cases, aspiring Behavior Analysts earn a bachelor’s degree before moving on to graduate-level coursework, resulting in a master’s degree in applied behavioral analysis or similar fields. They often move on to supervised fieldwork, which offers hands-on experience necessary to pass the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) exam. Some states also require Behavior Analysts to hold a state license. In others, a degree, proof of fieldwork and BCBA certification may qualify a professional for the position.

Job description samples for similar positions

A job description for Behavior Analysts might not be quite what you’re looking for. The following samples for similar positions may better align with your open position:

• Child Psychologist

• Psychiatrist

• Clinical Psychologist

• School Social Worker

Behavior Analyst job description FAQs

Are there different types of Behavior Analysts?

The behavior analysis field can generally be divided into two types: experimental and applied. Experimental analysis involves researching to enhance existing scientific data and strengthen the overall understanding of human behavior. Applied analysis uses existing knowledge to help patients in real-world scenarios.

Because psychologists generally conduct experimental analysis, you may attract applicants from the applied part of the field with your behavior analyst job description. If this isn’t the desired expertise, consider making this distinction so job seekers easily understand what you’re looking for.

What is the difference between a Behavior Analyst and a Psychologist?

Behavior analysis is often viewed as an extension of psychology with a key distinction. Psychologists may focus primarily on the mental processes and brain structures that lead to a person’s behavior. Behavior Analysts assess how the environment impacts action, looking outward to identify environmental shifts that may alter how the person reacts.

What qualities make a good Behavior Analyst?

As you craft your behavior analyst job description, consider looking for candidates who genuinely want to help patients. Curiosity might also be important, as it can encourage Behavior Analysts to evaluate challenging cases and find out where their clients’ greatest skills lie. Consider incorporating these qualities into your job posting to attract applicants with similar perspectives.

What is involved in behavior analysis?

Behavior Analysts often approach cases using three methods: prompting, shaping and chaining. Each step is response-based, as Behavior Analysts deconstruct responses triggered by verbal or physical cues. New behaviors are praised as a way to establish improved responses.