Date of Graduation
Spring 2025
Degree
Master of Science in Behavior Analysis & Therapy
Department
Mental Health & Behavioral Science
Committee Chair
Ann Rost
Abstract
Individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often experience challenges with restricted and repetitive behaviors, relating directly to challenges with psychological flexibility (Hyman et al., 2020; Hayes et al., 2006). Unfortunately, the history of applied behavior analysis has extended harmful implications of treatment that have focused on compliance training and punishment, often worsening psychological flexibility (Sandoval-Norton et al., 2019). Research is calling behavior analysis to combine flexible approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, with technologies exploring the intricacies of individual relational networks (Hayes et al., 1999; Hayes et al., 2022; Hayes & King, 2024). The present study introduced the Spatial Evaluation of Language and Flexibility for Youth (SELF-Y) as a contextual functional assessment technology. The SELF-Y provided maps of the relational networks across the contexts of one participant receiving ABA intervention. Combined with a contextual, highly personalized ACT intervention approach, the SELF-Y informed the participant’s case conceptualization and indicated a contextual function. Results demonstrated significant improvements across the participant’s contexts and ability to contact, build, and navigate valuable relationships while building defusion and committed action skills. The present study detailed a case example indicating where the future of behavior analysis lies – contextual approaches bridging the gap between complex theory and practice.
Keywords
relational frame theory, acceptance and commitment therapy, person-centered approaches, applied behavior analysis, functional assessment
Subject Categories
Applied Behavior Analysis | Child Psychology | Clinical Psychology | Disability Studies | Interpersonal and Small Group Communication | Other Psychology | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Social Psychology
Copyright
© Katelyn Frahm
Recommended Citation
Frahm, Katelyn, "Utilizing the Spatial Evaluation of Language and Flexibility for Youth (SELF-Y) in Clinical Case Conceptualization" (2025). MSU Graduate Theses/Dissertations. 4062.
https://bearworks.missouristate.edu/theses/4062
Open Access
Included in
Applied Behavior Analysis Commons, Child Psychology Commons, Clinical Psychology Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication Commons, Other Psychology Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Social Psychology Commons
