2.1 Defining Field

To better understand how behavior-analytic research informs behavior-analytic practice, it might be helpful to understand some terms. Let’s clarify some terms and discuss how they relate to behavior analysis. We will use the definitions of these terms from Merriam-Webster’s online dictionary to guide us. Field, for example, is defined as an area or division of an activity, subject, or profession. It has been suggested that a field is often characterized by an occupational group, a body of knowledge, standards of conduct, and minimal professional qualifications¹.