In 2009, Steven G. Little and Angeleque Akin-Little released the first edition of Behavioral Interventions in Schools: Evidence-Based Positive Strategies, a groundbreaking book that provided school psychologists with essential tools to address both academic and behavioral challenges in the classroom. A decade later, the second edition continues to shape the future of educational psychology by introducing new insights and strategies to meet the evolving needs of students.
The Journey from 2009 to Now
The first edition arrived at a pivotal moment when school psychologists were grappling with changes brought about by the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act of 2004 and the emergence of response-to-intervention models. The book aimed to provide a comprehensive guide for managing both academic and behavioral aspects of student development.
Fast forward ten years, and the landscape of school psychology has further evolved. The increasing prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses has highlighted the need for specialized intervention strategies. The second edition expands on this by including a dedicated section on ASD, underscoring the importance of collaboration between school psychologists and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs).
Key Additions in the Second Edition
- Focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder: New chapters explore screening, diagnosis, and intervention techniques specifically tailored for students with ASD.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): With empirical support as a leading psychotherapeutic approach, CBT is thoroughly discussed, including its application for students who have experienced trauma.
- Comprehensive Coverage: The book integrates a wide range of behavioral interventions, from applied behavior analysis (ABA) to cognitive therapies, providing a holistic resource for practitioners.
A Global Perspective on Educational Psychology
The authors draw on their experiences working in New Zealand, where educational approaches differ significantly from those in the United States. In New Zealand, schools prioritize problem-solving models over traditional psychoeducational assessments, offering valuable insights into alternative methodologies that could benefit U.S. schools.
Evidence-Based Practice: The Gold Standard
The American Psychological Association's policy on evidence-based practice emphasizes interventions grounded in clinically relevant research. This second edition adheres to these standards by offering strategies supported by decades of empirical data. From token economies to group contingencies and self-management techniques, each chapter is designed to equip educators with actionable knowledge.
A Resource for All Educational Stakeholders
While primarily targeted at school psychologists, this book is an invaluable resource for teachers, administrators, counselors, and social workers. It provides insights into creating effective instructional strategies and managing classroom behavior through positive reinforcement.
The Future of School Psychology
The second edition of Behavioral Interventions in Schools is more than just a book; it's a call to action for educational professionals to embrace evidence-based strategies that foster positive outcomes for all students. By equipping school psychologists with the tools they need to address both academic and emotional needs, this resource paves the way for a brighter future in education.
For more information, please follow this link.
