The Three Pillar Principles of the AABP
The AABP was founded on these principles.
Applied Behavior Analytic Approach:
The AABP and its membership are dedicated to the highly efficient and effective technology of behavior (also known as Applied Behavior Analysis), based on the natural science of behavior as opposed to ethological or medical-model orientation. For an elaboration of behavior analysis, see this article: http://www.behavior.org/behavior/what_is_beh_an.cfm . The medical-model approach to helping guardians resolve problem behaviors in their companion animals is still common, likely due to momentum from when veterinarians were the most common professionals dealing with these problems, but behavior is not a disease and a behavior analytic approach is highly efficient and effective. Since we are dedicated to finding the most effective and efficient solutions for changing behavior, the applied behavior analytic approach is the best option.
Standards of Excellence:
The AABP and its membership are committed to standards of excellence in professionalism, rather than mere minimal standards. The standards that AABP sets in terms of professional membership requirements and ethical conduct are designed to meet a standard of excellence. This is a higher standard than a bare minimum competency and ethical standard. See our membership criteria and our Professional Practice Guidelines for details.
Dedication to Nonaversives
The AABP and its membership are dedicated to nonaversive methods out of respect for the rights, dignity and autonomy of the learner no matter what species they are. Obviously, aversives are a part of every day life; we face them all the time. There is a difference, though, between this and the strategies and procedures we, as professionals, purposely design and implement to change someone's behavior. We are not saying it will always be possible to avoid implementing an aversive procedure, but the AABP and its members are dedicated to taking all possible steps to avoid this necessity and to ensure they achieve the Least Intrusive Effective Behavior Intervention.