ABA of Brazil – 2025 Chapter Update – Inside Behavior Analysis

By João Lucas Bernardy, Daniela Rocha-Jurado, Marcos Roberto Garcia e Pedro Bordini Faleiros

The Brazilian Association for Behavior Analysis (ACBr), founded in August 28th, 2013, was created to support and promote the growth of Behavior Analysis as a cultural and scientific practice in Brazil. It was established in response to the need for stronger institutional support and representation of the field within the Brazilian context.

At the core of ACBr’s mission is the dissemination of behavior analysis, aiming to ensure that the principles and applications of this science are accessible to a broad audience. This includes not only academics and practitioners but also students and consumers of behavioral services. The association seeks to equip these diverse audiences with a clear understanding of the criteria that define Behavior Analysis, ensuring that individuals and institutions engaging with behavioral practices do so based on scientifically grounded concepts and procedures.

In addition to educational initiatives, the ACBr works to inform its members about the richness and diversity of research being conducted in the field, as well as the range of behavior-analytic treatments available. By keeping its members up to date with theoretical advances and empirical findings, the association fosters a deeper appreciation of behavioral principles and the methodological rigor that underpins them.

A particularly significant aspect of ACBr’s work is its commitment to researching the landscape of Behavior Analysis in Brazil. This includes systematic efforts to map how the field is being taught in graduate programs across the country, how it is represented in professional training, and how it is being communicated to the general public. These insights not only help identify areas for improvement but also serve to promote and disseminate best teaching and dissemination practices, enhancing the quality and coherence of behavior-analytic education nationwide.

While the association does not serve as a regulatory or oversight body, it recognizes the importance of responding to the growing internal and external demand for contact with behavior analysis. This includes engaging with professionals, institutions, and the public who seek guidance about behavior-analytic principles and who are increasingly interested in evidence-

based practices rooted in the science of behavior. ACBr strives to meet this demand by offering scientifically sound information, encouraging dialogue, and promoting ethical practices.

To support its mission, the association actively shares its initiatives and resources through multiple communication channels, including social media, publications, and events. By maintaining an open dialogue with its members and the broader community, the ACBr ensures that its activities are transparent, inclusive, and continuously aligned with the evolving needs of the field.

Over the past year, the Brazilian Association for Behavior Analysis (ACBr) has undertaken important initiatives to promote and strengthen behavior analysis in Brazil. One of the key accomplishments was the organization of the survey “Panorama of Behavior-Analytic Training in Brazil,” aimed at mapping and understanding the current landscape of academic training in the field, providing data to guide improvements in educational programs.

The association also launched PRODICT, the Integrated Program for the Dissemination of Science and Technology in Behavior Analysis, which focuses on accessible, high-quality scientific communication. ACBr further strengthened its ties with other representative organizations, such as ABPMC and ANPAC, including the publication of an open letter addressed to the Minister of Human Rights, reaffirming the field’s ethical and social commitments. Lastly, the association played an active role in organizing the III National Congress on Behavior Analysis, which centered on the theme of “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,” bringing together professionals, students, and researchers for meaningful exchange and learning in a space committed to pluralism.

During its 2025–2026 term, ACBr will focus on promoting and disseminating behavior analysis in Brazil, while also expanding its efforts throughout Latin America. These initiatives will be guided by accessible and inclusive strategies, aligned with current scientific and societal demands, and developed in collaboration with other behavior-analytic associations. ACBr remains committed to advancing science and strengthening the behavior-analytic foundations of psychology. The association upholds ethical and responsible practices, supporting knowledge production, critical professional training, and the socially meaningful application of science.

Key planned actions include increasing the frequency of scientific and outreach events, with a focus on digital and hybrid formats that reduce geographic and economic barriers. Special attention will be given to encouraging participation from students, professionals, and collectives interested in behavior analysis, fostering a diverse and collaborative space for knowledge exchange.

The association also proposes the implementation of ongoing monitoring and dissemination of scientific content. This includes mapping and publicizing initiatives in behavior analysis across Brazil and Latin America, using social media and the institutional website to share curated, high-quality, and accessible information regularly.

Additionally, ACBr seeks to strengthen partnerships with nonprofit civil society organizations, as well as national and international scientific societies, to jointly promote science and expand access to behavior-analytic knowledge. All collaborations will be guided by the shared goal of strengthening Behavior Analysis as a scientific field.

Here, ACBr reaffirms its commitment to human rights, equity, and social justice. The association acknowledges the importance of building a psychological science that actively opposes discrimination and values diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, socioeconomic status, region, and religion. ACBr is dedicated to creating ethical, safe, and respectful spaces where everyone can contribute to the production, discussion, and application of behavior-analytic knowledge. To become a member of the Brazilian Association for Behavior Analysis (ACBr), individuals can choose from three categories of membership: full, affiliate, or student. Full membership is intended for professionals who hold at least a master’s degree with a dissertation grounded in contemporary verbal behavior-analytic practices, have completed over three years of supervised training in the field, or can demonstrate significant contributions to behavior analysis.

Applications for full membership are subject to review. Affiliate membership is open to professionals from any background, as well as to members of the broader community, such as caregivers, parents, and community agents, who are interested in learning about or engaging with Behavior Analysis, but do not meet or seek the criteria required for full membership. Student membership is available to undergraduate and graduate students in any field of study.

Becoming a member of ACBr grants access to a range of institutional benefits. Members are encouraged to participate in the association’s initiatives, engage in working groups, and contribute to the dissemination and advancement of behavior analysis in Brazil and Latin America. Membership also includes discounts on events, workshops, and congresses. In certain cases, members may take part in electoral processes and assume representative roles within the organization. ACBr offers a collaborative environment dedicated to active engagement, knowledge exchange, and the continued development of behavior-analytic science.

The next major event promoted by ACBr will be the IV National Congress of the Brazilian Association for Behavior Analysis, to be held in November 2026. This congress will be an opportunity to engage with the behavior-analytic community, share scientific knowledge, and promote the advancement of the field in Brazil and Latin America.