Concept Analyses of Intrusive and Restrictive Procedures

Date of Award

6-2025

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Stephanie Peterson, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Jonathan Baker, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Wayne Fuqua, Ph.D.

Fourth Advisor

Sarah Pinkelman, Ph.D.

Keywords

Concept analysis, ethics, intrusive procedures, restrictive procedures

Abstract

Intrusive and restrictive procedures may be implemented as part of a treatment plan when an individual engages in challenging behavior that puts themselves or others at risk. Intrusive procedures “infringe upon an individual’s body, personal space, or property,” while restrictive procedures impede the client’s engagement in the target response (Merriam-Webster, n.d.; Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, 2020; Smith, 2011). Such procedures must be used with caution and infrequently. The Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts (Behavior Analysts Certification Board, 2020) states that behavior analysts should use the least restrictive treatment necessary and provides specific criteria behavior analysts should consider when implementing intrusive and restrictive procedures (Code 2.15). However, it does not appear that there is an agreed-upon definition of intrusive and restrictive procedures in the field, which may result in behavior analysts being unable to identify strategies as intrusive or restrictive. I conducted concept analyses and developed definitions of intrusive/restrictive procedures. Methods included two phases. During Phase 1, I developed proposed attributes of intrusive and restrictive procedures based on a review of related literature and my clinical experience. I then surveyed general behavior analysts and expert doctoral-level behavior analysts, gauging opinions on the proposed attributes. During Phase 2, I convened an expert panel to review and discuss the results of Phases 1 to solidify critical and variable attributes and develop definitions of intrusive/restrictive procedures. One critical attribute and four variable attributes of intrusive/restrictive procedures were identified. However, an agreed-upon definition could not be finalized. I completed concept analyses and proposed definitions of intrusive/restrictive procedures based on the study's results and my clinical experience. Further research is needed to ensure that behavior analysts have a common understanding and definitions of intrusive/restrictive procedures.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Abstract Only

Restricted to Campus until

6-1-2027

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