The Smiths’ daughter, who has autism, has been receiving ABA services for one-and-a-half years from Andrew, a behavior analyst. Andrew’s experience and training is in special education. Recently, the Smiths’ other child has been behaving differently and they suspect that he may be clinically depressed. The Smiths would like their son to receive services from Andrew because their family is familiar with him and he has provided effective interventions for their daughter. The Smiths ask Andrew to confirm their suspicions about their son. What should Andrew do?

The Smiths’ daughter, who has autism, has been receiving ABA services for one-and-a-half years from Andrew, a behavior analyst. Andrew’s experience and training is in special education. Recently, the Smiths’ other child has been behaving differently and they suspect that he may be clinically depressed. The Smiths would like their son to receive services from Andrew because their family is familiar with him and he has provided effective interventions for their daughter. The Smiths ask Andrew to confirm their suspicions about their son. What should Andrew do?

A. Remind the family that his area of expertise is special education and ABA.

B. Conduct a descriptive assessment and collect baseline data in order to develop an intervention.

C. Consult with colleagues who have expertise in treating mood disorders in order to design an effective intervention.

D. Refer the family to a colleague who has expertise in diagnosing mood disorders.

View Answer

Answer: D