Levin, M. E., Twohig, M. P., & Smith, B. M. (2015). Contextual Behavioral Science. The Wiley Handbook of Contextual Behavioral Science, 17-36.
This chapter provides an overview of the approach to behavior science, contextual behavioral science (CBS). To adequately test the scope and depth of the theoretical model and basic principles it is important to examine whether they apply across a broad range of behaviors that are hypothesized to share similar functions, and across levels of analysis. Consistent with a functional contextual approach to science, environmental variables are considered central to any analysis of behavior. CBS puts theory at the forefront of research questions, rather than just testing the efficacy of intervention packages. It considers a scientific analysis correct only if it helps to meet scientific goals, and focuses on variables that can be manipulated. In these ways, CBS offers one potential answer for how to develop a progressive approach to behavioral science that might better meet the challenges faced by society and opportunities for further growth.