Episode 18: Radical Behaviorism & Radical Accountability: A nuanced conversation about ABA, ethics and how we move forward. (Part 3)

What this episode covers

In this episode of the DIVERG. Podcast, we're joined by Brian Middleton, BCBA and leader in values-driven behavior support. Brian walks us through his journey of integrating the ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) framework into his practice, offering a powerful alternative to compliance-based behavior plans. Together, we explore how ACT shifts the conversation from "fixing behavior" to helping individuals live in alignment with their values, even in the face of difficult thoughts or emotions. Brian shares how this approach fosters autonomy, emotional resilience, and connection—especially for neurodivergent kids whose needs are often misunderstood in traditional systems. This episode is an invitation to reimagine support—not as control, but as collaboration rooted in dignity, consent, and purpose. In this episode, we cover: * An introduction to the ACT Framework and how it applies to neurodivergent support * The role of language, acceptance, and psychological flexibility in long-term growth * Practical strategies for parents and practitioners who want to shift their approach Episode Resources: Behavior Analysis & Foundational Texts * The Four Free-Operant Freedoms [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2733618/] * Coercion and Its Fallout * Tactics of Scientific Research: Evaluating Experimental Data in Psychology * Executive Function: What They Are, How They Work, and Why They Evolved [https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Functions-What-They-Evolved/dp/146250535X] * Executive Functioning Workbook for Kids [https://www.amazon.com/Executive-Functioning-Workbook-Kids/dp/164876306X] ACT-Based Resources for Adolescents * The Thriving Adolescent * Stuff That Sucks * Your Life, Your Way ACT Resources for Children and Behavior Analysts * ACT for Adolescents * The ACT Workbook for Kids [https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Workbook-Kids-Activities-Emotional/dp/1684037379] * ACT and Applied Behavior Analysis [https://www.amazon.com/ACT-Applied-Behavior-Analysis-Acceptance/dp/B0CZ7L7G43] Additional ACT-Related Resources * Superhero Therapy [https://www.amazon.com/Superhero-Therapy-Mindfulness-Anxiety-Depression/dp/1684030331] * It Shouldn't Be This Way [https://www.amazon.com/Shouldnt-Be-This-Way-Learning/dp/1472145984] •  • Super-Women: Superhero Therapy for Women Battling Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma [https://www.amazon.com/Super-Women-Superhero-Therapy-Battling-Depression/dp/1684037522]