Mapping the Evidence on Compassion Skills in Applied Behavior Analysis: Protocol for Scoping Review.

Background: Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach that applies principles of learning and motivation to assess, design, implement, and evaluate social and environmental modifications to produce meaningful changes in human behavior. It has been widely used in various settings, particularly in the treatment of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. Recently, compassion has emerged as a topic of growing scientific interest within ABA. To improve socially relevant behaviors, it is essential to explore how behavior analysts can provide maximum support to clients and promote significant changes through compassionate care. Although compassion skills have been studied by ABA researchers, the literature still presents gaps in understanding how these skills can be effectively integrated into ABA practice.

Objective: This study aimed to map, identify, and provide data available in the existing literature on compassion skills and applied behavior analysis.

Methods: This scoping review will follow the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley with previously proposed refinements. The search strategy will use combinations of descriptors and their synonyms according to the Health Sciences Descriptors and MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms, using the PCC (population, concept, and context) mnemonic, combined with the Boolean operators AND Mesh OR. The electronic databases to be searched include Embase, Index Psicologia, Lilacs, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies published between 2020 and 2024 in English, Portuguese, and Spanish will be included. Two independent reviewers will screen titles, abstracts, and full texts, with a third reviewer resolving any disagreements.

Results: As this is a protocol, results are pending. The review will synthesize definitions of compassion in ABA, map compassionate skills, analyze existing interventions, and identify outcomes associated with compassionate ABA practice.

Conclusions: This scoping review is expected to contribute to the evolution of ABA toward a more compassionate and holistic approach, potentially leading to improved outcomes for clients and practitioners. The findings may inform the development of compassion training programs and influence care policies in ABA.

Trial registration: OSF Registries 10.17605/OSF.IO/F3A6H; https://osf.io/f3a6h.

International registered report identifier (irrid): PRR1-10.2196/66399.