The Efficacy of the PEAK-T module for Transitioning Individuals from Traditional Applied Behavior Analytic Services to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Author

Haley Davis, Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Date of Award

5-2019

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Behavior Analysis and Therapy

First Advisor

Dixon, Mark

Second Advisor

Rehfeldt, Ruth Anne

Third Advisor

Koch, Shane

Abstract

Research regarding transitioning individuals from strictly discrete trial training (DTT) formatted services to nontraditional ABA intervention, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) that is targeted for social emotional needs and skill acquisition, has lagged behind the majority. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to target these clientele needs by evaluating 3 individuals who either were beginning this progression or had briefly begun this stage that began displaying problematic behaviors that were interfering with services. This study consisted of implementing Accept-Identify-Move (AIM) curriculum for baseline. Intervention was then staggered for participants and included solely using 8 of the Promoting the Emergence of Advanced Knowledge (PEAK)-Transformation programs that incorporate ACT concepts into the DTT format until mastery levels were achieved. Afterwards, participants returned to baseline conditions using AIM curriculum. Psychological flexibility assessments were conducted before each phase. Additionally, problematic behaviors, ACT Quantitative Analysis Scale (AQAS) scores, and fidelity checklists were tracked for every session. The intervention proved effective in reducing problematic behaviors throughout the session and increasing AQAS scores.