Practitioner-Implemented Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions: Systematic Review of Social Validity Practices
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Topics in Early Childhood Special Education
Volume
39
Issue
3
Publisher
Sage Publications, Inc.
Publication Date
7-16-2019
First Page
170
Last Page
182
Abstract
Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions (NDBIs) are evidence-based interventions implemented by the adults in a child’s natural environment (e.g., by practitioners in classrooms). The social validity of this body of research may have an impact on the maintenance of practitioner implementation of NDBIs. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the components (i.e., goals, procedures, and outcomes) and features of social validation assessment practices within studies where researchers trained practitioners to implement an NDBI with young children with disabilities in early childhood classroom contexts. Results of the systematic review indicated that social validity assessment within practitioner-implemented NDBI studies is lacking. Of the 23 studies identified, only 12 studies reported social validity assessment(s). Findings also highlight a lack of comprehensive social validity assessment and frequent use of biased respondents. An in-depth analysis of social validity assessment methods and features, as well as recommendations for the field, is provided.
Recommended Citation
D’Agostino, S., Douglas, S.N., & Duenas, A. (2019). Practitioner Implemented Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions in Early Childhood: A Systematic Review of Social Validity Prevalence and Practice. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education. 39, 170-182. https://doi.org/10.1177/0271121419854803