Describe a controversial treatment using information from at least one reputable source. Discuss at least one pro statement that supports the use of the treatment. These may come from experts, therapists, parents, or others. Also, discuss at least one con statement that opposes or refutes the treatment. Summarize these statements and evaluate findings. Discuss at least three relevant BACB ethics codes. Explain how to effectively evaluate treatments to determine if they are evidence based or not. Explain in your conclusion how you would discuss the importance of using evidence-based strategies with colleagues and the families with whom you work while also respecting other professions and the people involved.
Sample solution
Dante Alighieri played a critical role in the literature world through his poem Divine Comedy that was written in the 14th century. The poem contains Inferno, Purgatorio, and Paradiso. The Inferno is a description of the nine circles of torment that are found on the earth. It depicts the realms of the people that have gone against the spiritual values and who, instead, have chosen bestial appetite, violence, or fraud and malice. The nine circles of hell are limbo, lust, gluttony, greed and wrath. Others are heresy, violence, fraud, and treachery. The purpose of this paper is to examine the Dante’s Inferno in the perspective of its portrayal of God’s image and the justification of hell.
In this epic poem, God is portrayed as a super being guilty of multiple weaknesses including being egotistic, unjust, and hypocritical. Dante, in this poem, depicts God as being more human than divine by challenging God’s omnipotence. Additionally, the manner in which Dante describes Hell is in full contradiction to the morals of God as written in the Bible. When god arranges Hell to flatter Himself, He commits egotism, a sin that is common among human beings (Cheney, 2016). The weakness is depicted in Limbo and on the Gate of Hell where, for instance, God sends those who do not worship Him to Hell. This implies that failure to worship Him is a sin.
God is also depicted as lacking justice in His actions thus removing the godly image. The injustice is portrayed by the manner in which the sodomites and opportunists are treated. The opportunists are subjected to banner chasing in their lives after death followed by being stung by insects and maggots. They are known to having done neither good nor bad during their lifetimes and, therefore, justice could have demanded that they be granted a neutral punishment having lived a neutral life. The sodomites are also punished unfairly by God when Brunetto Lattini is condemned to hell despite being a good leader (Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). While he commited sodomy, God chooses to ignore all the other good deeds that Brunetto did.
Finally, God is also portrayed as being hypocritical in His actions, a sin that further diminishes His godliness and makes Him more human. A case in point is when God condemns the sin of egotism and goes ahead to commit it repeatedly. Proverbs 29:23 states that “arrogance will bring your downfall, but if you are humble, you will be respected.” When Slattery condemns Dante’s human state as being weak, doubtful, and limited, he is proving God’s hypocrisy because He is also human (Verdicchio, 2015). The actions of God in Hell as portrayed by Dante are inconsistent with the Biblical literature. Both Dante and God are prone to making mistakes, something common among human beings thus making God more human.
To wrap it up, Dante portrays God is more human since He commits the same sins that humans commit: egotism, hypocrisy, and injustice. Hell is justified as being a destination for victims of the mistakes committed by God. The Hell is presented as being a totally different place as compared to what is written about it in the Bible. As a result, reading through the text gives an image of God who is prone to the very mistakes common to humans thus ripping Him off His lofty status of divine and, instead, making Him a mere human. Whether or not Dante did it intentionally is subject to debate but one thing is clear in the poem: the misconstrued notion of God is revealed to future generations.
References
Babor, T. F., McGovern, T., & Robaina, K. (2017). Dante’s inferno: Seven deadly sins in scientific publishing and how to avoid them. Addiction Science: A Guide for the Perplexed, 267.
Cheney, L. D. G. (2016). Illustrations for Dante’s Inferno: A Comparative Study of Sandro Botticelli, Giovanni Stradano, and Federico Zuccaro. Cultural and Religious Studies, 4(8), 487.
Verdicchio, M. (2015). Irony and Desire in Dante’s” Inferno” 27. Italica, 285-297.
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Controversial Treatment: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely used treatment for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). However, it has become a controversial topic within both the autism community and among professionals. While many advocate for ABA as an effective intervention, critics argue that it can be harmful and disrespectful to the autonomy of individuals on the spectrum.
Pro Statement Supporting ABA
Supporters of ABA often cite its empirical foundation and effectiveness in promoting adaptive behaviors and reducing maladaptive behaviors. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, “ABA therapy can be effective in improving social skills, communication, and daily living skills in individuals with ASD.” Dr. Doreen Granpeesheh, the founder of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD), emphasizes that “ABA is based on the principles of behavior and helps children with autism learn essential life skills through structured, individualized programs.” These statements highlight the structured, evidence-based nature of ABA as a significant benefit for many individuals.
Con Statement Opposing ABA
Conversely, many advocates within the autism community argue against ABA’s methods, claiming it can promote compliance over autonomy. Autistic self-advocates, such as Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), argue that “ABA can be dehumanizing, focusing on eliminating behaviors rather than understanding the individual’s needs.” Critics like Dr. Stephen Shore assert that “the emphasis on conformity can cause distress and trauma, leading to a negative impact on mental health.” This opposition underscores concerns about the ethical implications of using such a treatment without considering an individual’s dignity and emotional well-being.
Evaluation of Findings
When considering the pro and con statements regarding ABA, it is essential to recognize that while ABA may be beneficial for some individuals, it may not be suitable for all. The effectiveness of any treatment should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the individual’s preferences, needs, and experiences. This nuanced understanding is crucial in determining the appropriateness of ABA as a treatment for ASD.
Relevant BACB Ethics Codes
The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) outlines several ethics codes relevant to the practice of ABA:
1. Code 1.01 – Reliability and Validity: Behavior analysts must use interventions based on reliable and valid data. This code emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices in ensuring effective treatment.
2. Code 2.09 – Treatment Integrity: Behavior analysts are responsible for ensuring that interventions are implemented as intended. This code highlights the necessity of monitoring treatment fidelity to achieve desired outcomes.
3. Code 4.01 – Responsibility: Behavior analysts must act in the best interest of their clients. This includes considering the potential psychological impact of treatments and respecting client autonomy.
These ethical guidelines underscore the importance of using evidence-based strategies that prioritize individual welfare and respect.
Evaluating Treatments for Evidence-Based Status
To effectively evaluate treatments like ABA and determine their evidence-based status, professionals should consider several factors:
1. Literature Review: Conduct comprehensive reviews of peer-reviewed research studies to assess the effectiveness of the treatment for specific populations.
2. Meta-Analyses: Analyze findings from multiple studies to determine overall efficacy rates and identify any inconsistencies in results.
3. Clinical Guidelines: Refer to established clinical guidelines from reputable organizations such as the American Psychological Association or the National Autism Center, which provide recommendations based on empirical evidence.
4. Individual Needs: Assess individual cases to determine how well a treatment aligns with the specific needs and preferences of clients.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while ABA remains a controversial treatment for autism spectrum disorder, it is crucial to approach discussions regarding its use with sensitivity and respect for differing opinions. As professionals in the field, we must emphasize the importance of evidence-based strategies while also acknowledging the diverse perspectives within the autism community. When discussing treatment options with colleagues and families, I would advocate for open dialogue that respects all viewpoints. By fostering an environment where evidence-based practices are prioritized while also being sensitive to individual experiences and preferences, we can work collaboratively to provide the best possible care for those we serve.
