PSY FPX 7421 Assessment 3 Cognitive Psychology Theories Applied to Behavior Analysis

Student Name

Capella University

PSY FPX 7421 Cognitive/Affective Psychology

Prof. Name

Date

Applying Cognitive Psychology Theories to Behavior Analysis

In the professional domain of applied behavior analysis, integrating cognitive psychology theories is imperative for addressing myriad workplace challenges effectively. These theories encompass problem-solving and creativity, decision-making and reasoning, as well as human and artificial intelligence. For practitioners in applied behavior analysis, especially those offering clinical services to individuals with autism, proficiency in utilizing these theories is crucial for fostering effective collaboration with colleagues and clients. By harnessing these theories both independently and collaboratively, professionals can enhance their capabilities and provide higher quality services.

Problem-Solving and Creativity

The exploration of problem-solving and creativity traces back to the 1920s with Gestalt psychologists, who observed humans frequently employing insight to overcome challenges. Creativity, a multifaceted concept, entails utilizing various abilities, properties, and behaviors to tackle problems. Divergent thinking, a pivotal element of creativity, focuses on generating innovative solutions to loosely defined problems. These theories find direct application in the field of behavior analysis, with neuroscience indicating links between creativity and certain mental health conditions. Understanding these connections facilitates the development of tailored interventions for diverse populations and addressing ethical dilemmas, such as honoring cultural beliefs while targeting specific objectives (Gibson et al., 2009; Carson, 2014).

Decision-Making and Reasoning

Early philosophical discourses on decision-making and reasoning have evolved into contemporary cognitive science research, which delves into factors influencing cognitive tasks like perception and memory recognition. Internal and external factors mold an individual’s thought process, thereby influencing their decisions. Neuroscience research provides insights into decision-making processes, bolstering theories applied across various domains, including consumer behavior and healthcare. Cultural disparities further impact decision-making and reasoning processes, underscoring the significance of comprehending diverse perspectives. Ethical considerations in decision-making entail ensuring competence in executing behavior-change interventions and promptly addressing errors to safeguard clients’ well-being (Yoon et al., 2012; Busemeyer, 2015).

Human and Artificial Intelligence

Human intelligence, deeply rooted in human history, juxtaposes with the relatively recent emergence of artificial intelligence in the 1950s. Both forms of intelligence contribute to behavior change interventions and client support. Neuroscience research elucidates factors influencing human intelligence, encompassing environmental, genetic, and physiological influences. Similarly, advancements in artificial intelligence draw from neuroscience findings to emulate human cognitive processes. Cultural beliefs and values shape perceptions of intelligence, influencing the acceptance and utilization of artificial intelligence. Ethical quandaries related to intelligence revolve around operating within one’s scope of competence and ensuring interventions align with evidence-based practices (Hassabis et al., 2017; Deary et al., 2010).

Conclusion

In the dynamic realm of applied behavior analysis, professionals encounter daily challenges necessitating swift and effective responses. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams ensures comprehensive treatment approaches tailored to clients’ needs. By integrating evidence-based practices and cognitive psychology theories, such as problem-solving and creativity, decision-making and reasoning, and human and artificial intelligence, behavior analysts can deliver competent services and enhance clients’ overall quality of life.

References

Behavior Analyst Certification Board. (2020). Ethics code for behavior analysts. Littleton, CO: Author.

Busemeyer, J. R. (2015). Cognitive science contributions to decision science. Cognition, 135, 43-46.

PSY FPX 7421 Assessment 3 Cognitive Psychology Theories Applied to Behavior Analysis

Carson, S. (2014). Leveraging the “mad genius” debate: Why we need a neuroscience of creativity and psychopathology. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 8, 771.

Deary, I. J., et al. (2010). The neuroscience of human intelligence differences. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 11(3), 201-211.

Gibson, C., et al. (2009). Enhanced divergent thinking and creativity in musicians: A behavioral and near-infrared spectroscopy study. Brain and Cognition, 69(1), 162-169.

Hassabis, D., et al. (2017). Neuroscience-inspired artificial intelligence. Neuron (Cambridge, Mass.), 95(2), 245-258.

Jordanous, A., & Keller, B. (2016). Modelling creativity: Identifying key components through a corpus-based approach. PloS One, 11(10), e0162959.