Recommendations Regarding Use of the Term " Ignore" in Applied Behavior Analysis

Perspect Behav Sci. 2023 Apr 20;46(2):399-408. doi: 10.1007/s40614-023-00373-2. eCollection 2023 Jun.

Abstract

Ignore is a common term used in behavioral assessment, behavior intervention plans, textbooks, and research articles. In the present article, we recommend against the typical usage of the term in most applications of behavior analysis. First, we briefly outline some history of the use of the term in behavior analysis. Then, we describe six main concerns about ignore and the implications for its continued use. Finally, we address each of these concerns with proposed solutions, such as alternatives to the use of ignore.

Keywords: Behavior assessment; Behavior intervention plans; Ignore; Planned ignoring.

Publication types

  • Review