Recorded: Attachment Theory, Desire and Sexual Intimacy [As seen through a Behavior-Analytic Lens]

**This course will provide the participant with 2 General Learning Type BACB® CEU**

First developed in the 1950s, attachment theory has only risen in popularity with buzzwords like “anxious,” “avoidant,” “disorganized,” or “secure” and #attachmentstyle trending on social media. How do we navigate when clients want us to help them cope with a current attachment style or wish to change to a more secure one? We go back to the basics! We will look at topographies of the attachment styles and how each was shaped by reinforcement and punishment. In addition, we’ll look at research supporting why knowing about attachment is beneficial for behavior analysts and how ACT can be used to assist with behaviors linked to attachment problems.

About the Instructor: Rachel Benson (she/her) is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and has worked with the neurodivergent population for over ten years in various settings, including school, home, and clinic locations and water therapy. Rachel is currently under practicum for her Sexual Educator Certificate. Her current work is focused on sexual health, safety, relationships, and empowerment with both neurodivergent and neurotypical populations. Her philosophy is grounded in access to sexual health and sexuality for all and being able to obtain a comprehensive and inclusive sexual education.

Target Audience: Anyone looking to learn about the connection of attachment theory, desire, and sexual intimacy as seen through a Behavior-Analytic lens.

Learning Objectives for Participants: As a result of this course participants will be able to …

• Clinicians will operationally define attachment styles according to topography.
• Clinicians will describe why knowing about attachment theory is beneficial in ABA.
• Clinicians will evaluate what research has shown with attachment and polyamory/CNM relationships and evaluate what can be brought into behavior analytic practice from research surrounding attachment and pornography.
• Clinicians will analyze how ACT tools can assist with behaviors linked to attachment problems.

To earn credit, you will be required to watch all video portions and pass a quiz about it with a score of 80% or higher. You can retake the quiz as many times as needed, but you may not receive exactly the same questions each time.