Date of Conferral

5-8-2025

Date of Award

May 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Michael Langlais

Abstract

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased dramatically over the past 20 years; the Centers for Disease Control describe ASD as an epidemic of need. Individuals with ASD need proper treatment and support services. One of the most significant needs is for applied behavior analysis (ABA), which is considered the most effective treatment for ASD, yet several barriers impede caregivers’ ability to access ABA, such as the shortage of ABA practitioners, including registered behavior technicians (RBTs). This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of RBTs working with children with ASD in ABA settings in the United States. The study aimed to understand factors contributing to job satisfaction and dissatisfaction among RBTs, guided by Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory. Using purposive sampling, seven RBTs with at least 1 year of experience across multiple ABA companies were recruited. Data were collected through semistructured interviews via the Zoom platform and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. The study identified five themes that describe RBTs’ lived experiences, including (a) connections and rewarding interactions with clients, (b) challenges with parents and support, (c) burnout and mental health hindrances, (d) satisfaction dependent on work environment and culture, and (e) dependence on training and development for professional growth. The results provide a basis for recommendations aimed at improving job satisfaction and retention among RBTs, with the potential for greater access to quality ABA services for children with ASD leading to more effective treatment and better developmental outcomes contributing to positive social change.

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