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College of Human Development, Culture, and Media

Behavioral Theory in Applied Practice Research Lab

Lead Faculty Researcher : Frank Cicero, Ph.D. , BCBA

This research lab is dedicated to investigating the basic principles and theories of behavior analysis and how they can be applied to real life situations and settings. The goal of the lab is to conduct and disseminate high-quality research in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Current research interests include:

  • Investigating the effects of differential reinforcement procedures on behavior of individuals across a variety of classes and contexts
  • Developing empirically supported behavioral treatments for improving skills in individuals with significant developmental disabilities (e.g. toilet training, sexual behavior, functional communication)
  • Assessment and treatment of severe problem behavior in children and adults with autism and related developmental disabilities
  • Investigating the social acceptance of behavioral treatment procedures and how that relates to the use of behavioral procedures in applied, community-based settings

Undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to participate in the lab as research assistants. Students are mentored in conducting research projects under the guidance of faculty and will be given opportunities to present at conferences and publish within the field of Applied Behavior Analysis and related fields. All students interested in volunteering as research assistants should contact Dr. Frank Cicero at Frank.Cicero@shu.edu

Behavioral Practices in Clinical and School - Based Settings Research Lab

Lead Faculty Researcher : Brian Conners, Ed.S., BCBA

This research lab is dedicated to investigating behavioral practices in both clinical and school-based settings. The goal of the lab is to disseminate high-quality research in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis. Current research topics include:

  • Crisis intervention procedures such as restraint and seclusion
  • Assessing and treating challenging behavior ( i.e., physical aggression, self-injury, property destruction, etc.)
  • Community-based instruction for individuals with developmental disabilities and other disorders
  • Employment skills training for individuals with developmental disabilities and other disorders
  • Supervision and training of professionals in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis

Undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to participate in the lab as research assistants. Students are mentored in conducting research projects under the guidance of faculty and will be given opportunities to present at conferences and publish within the field of Applied Behavior Analysis and related fields. All interested students in volunteering as research assistants should contact Brian Conners, Ed.S., BCBA at brian.conners@shu.edu.