Dahl, J., & Lundgren, T. (2005). Behavior Analysis of Epilepsy: Conditioning mechanisms, behavior technology and the contribution of ACT. The Behavior Analyst Today, 6(3), 191-202.
The conditioning mechanisms involved in the epileptic seizure behavior along with subsequent effective behavioral treatment have been known for more than a half a century. The behavior technology of seizure control provides low-cost, drug free treatment alternative for individual already suffering from seizures and the stigmatization of epilepsy. Despite this substantial amount of research, behavior therapy for seizures is not available to most people. This aim of this paper is to present the history of the behavior analysis and therapy developed in the last century. In addition to the established behavioral technology, a third wave contextual behavior therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy is shown in a recent study to contribute to new dimensions of treatment. Whereas, previous behavioral treatment regimens have aimed at seizure control, ACT aims at creating psychological flexibility around all of the experiential avoidance patterns associated with epilepsy and builds repertoire towards the individuals valued life. A treatment model that includes both the behavioral analysis and seizure control techniques along with ACT components: acceptance, defusion skills, mindfulness, and committed action in valued direction may have greater success than behavioral treatments alone. While behavioral control strategies may be used for preventing, predicting and actually interrupting seizure behavior, acceptance-based skills are used for creating flexibility around “resistance” to having seizures. While more research is needed, this combination represents a viable alternative and or compliment to drug and surgical therapy.