Editorial

Abstract

Dear IEJEE Readers,

It’s a great pleasure for me to present this special issue about the scientific strengths and practical challenges that characterize Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in our time. Near thirty active researchers within the field of autism/autism spectrum disorder (ASD) express their ideas, experiences and achievements in the field of ABA. They share their concerns about their observations in the field. Through this special issue, they are exposing themselves to the public room. They are doing this while we are celebrating AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH of April.    

The field of ABA has a strong scientific knowledge base. It is not only involved in, but it has been the main contributor to the establishment of twenty-eight evidence-based practices (EBPs) for children and youth with ASD/autistic children and youth. With these EBPs one can give a helping hand to individuals at different ages to improve their socially significant behaviors; social, communicative, functional and adaptive skills.   

I do not have any doubt that the topics and concerns they are addressing will contribute to eye-opening and strengthen scientific awareness and scientific seriosity in the field. It will not be an exaggeration to claim that the thirteen papers have the potential to start a paradigm shift in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis toward more ethical, more progressive and more reflective practices with fidelity, by everybody, for individuals with autism / autistic individuals.    

Thanks to Drs Joseph H. Cihon, Justin B. Leaf and Ellie Kazemi for their editorialship for this valuable special issue of IEJEE.

Dr. Kamil ÖZERK, Professor of Education

Editor-In-Chief, IEJEE