Welcome back to the Behaviorist Book Club podcast! I’m Matt Harrington, your host. Today, we kick off our “Essential Readings for Behavior Analysts” series with a conceptual deep dive into Moore et al. (2024), “Towards a Further Understanding of Assent.”

Why I Chose This Article

Assent-based care should be the foundation of ethical ABA. Moore et al. (2024) build on Morrison et al. (2021) and push us to define, measure, and embed learner choice systematically—especially when verbal consent is not possible.

Key Concepts & Definitions

• Assent vs. Consent: Consent is formal and often one-time; assent is ongoing and observable.
• Social Validity: Assent ensures interventions matter not just to caregivers—but to the learner themselves.
• Misconceptions: Smiling or lack of resistance ≠ assent. Real assent requires observable choice between meaningful options.

Six Key Considerations for Embedding Assent in Practice

1. Is Assent Applicable and Feasible?
   Use verbal or nonverbal assent protocols depending on learner ability. Balance complexity with impact.
2. Assess Assent-Related Skills:
   Ensure the learner can discriminate between choices; otherwise, train that skill first.
3. Design the Assent Procedure:
   Present options, allow brief sampling, and ensure each choice has reinforcement built-in.
4. Ensure Fair Choice:
   Choices must carry equal or positive reinforcement—avoid coercive arrangements.
5. Choose When to Assess Assent:
   Check assent throughout the day, not just once. Fatigue and environment matter.
6. Combine Formal and Informal Measures:
   Define observable assent behaviors. Use caregiver input only to supplement, not replace, direct data.

Case Illustration

Learner: 8-year-old nonverbal child on the autism spectrum
Target: Shape matching at a tabletop workstation

• Used nonverbal assent measures
• Taught simple identity matching
• Provided equal-valued activity options with reinforcement
• Monitored assent behaviors every 15 minutes
• Adjusted schedule based on observed dips in assent

Result: Snack break improved both assent and task performance

Why This Matters

Assent-centered interventions reduce resistance, enhance cooperation, and improve skill acquisition. They prioritize learner autonomy and therapeutic alliance.

Related and Foundational Articles

• Morrison et al. (2021): "Assent Interruption: Conceptual Foundations and Review"
• Rogers et al. (2022): "Towards a Trauma-Informed Application of Behavior Analysis"
• West & Glenn (1990): Early pilot study on child assent in classroom settings

Resources & Links

• Full transcript and episode resources
• CEU Stream – 80+ hours, $10/month
• Send feedback or questions: [email protected]

How to Use This Episode in Practice

1. Re-read Moore et al. (2024), focusing on pp. 4–7
2. Map an “assent protocol” for one client using the six steps
3. Collect both assent and performance data for one week
4. Share and reflect with a peer or supervisor

Next Time on the Series

We’ll cover Rogers et al. (2022) and transition from theory to trauma-informed application. Subscribe and stay tuned!

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