Contextual Behavior Analysis in the Assessment Process

The ecosystems perspective offers a framework for assessment that takes into account the contextual web within which the client is inextricably enmeshed. To be immediately useful, however, the perspective must be operationalized. Contextual behavior analysis offers an approach to assessment that is systemic, operationalized, prescriptive, and amenable to rigorous evaluation. The broad contours of the ecosystems perspective and contemporary contextual behavior analysis are sketched. Using a case vignette, the steps involved in the analysis and the advantages of using graphic aids in the process are outlined. Finally, the advantages of the approach for clinical practice settings are discussed.