Reflections on a profcssional characterization of the clínica! applications of behavior analysis

Abstract

This paper examines the way in which clinical psychology (including that which uses behavioral techniques) is b?sed on a pathologically-orientated medical model. Inclusion of the medical model’s assumptions has prevented an analysis of the social values which determine the identification of clinical problems, leading instead to the emphasis of the how of professional practice, rather than dic what and why of this practice. Cunent clinical practice is criticized for its ideologized form of dealing with behavioral change, asid a non-clinicai option is proposed as an intervention strategy in dic examination of the chasiges iii human behavior.