Peer-reviewed publications and academic research projects
As an applied behavior scientist, my research is centered on addressing complex, real-world problems. My approach is flexible and innovative, leveraging a variety of research methods to approach interesting problems.
Current areas of interest:
Organizational behavior management: leadership, mentorship, and training
Organizational processes: measurement and improvement initiatives
Applications of technology in applied behavior Analysis
Methods and implications of predicting behaivor in clinical settings
Novel approaches to data collection and measurement
Peer-Reviewed Articles
Book Chapters
Citations
h-Index
Authors: Arce, W., Walker, S. G., Debrine, J., Riggan, B.S., Gehringer, J.
Journal: Machine Learning and Applications
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1016/j.mlwa.2023.100515
Due to the importance of accurately collecting clinically-relevant behavior in treatment settings, the research team developed a small dataset, trained model annotators, and evaluated computer vision model performance.
Authors: Arce, W., Walker, S. G., Hurtz, M., Gehringer, J.
Journal:Behavior Analysis in Practice
Year: 2023
Volume: Vol. 14
DOI: 10.1007/s40617-023-00817-w
Cometrics is a Microsoft Windows compatible clinical tool for the collection and recording of frequency- and duration-based target behaviors, physiological signals, and video data. This software package is designed to record in-vivo observational and physiological data. In addition, we have included features that allow observers to capture video from real-time camera feeds and import saved video for retroactive data collection.
Authors: Phipps, L., Arce, W., Walker, S. G., Gehringer, J.
Journal: Mental health Science
Year: June 2024
Volume: Vol. 2, Issue 3
DOI: 10.1002/mhs2.74
A pilot of a new measurement system that objectively assesses social validity of feeding interventions from a child's perspective. The study found that the measurement system was able to detect changes in physiological arousal and emotional valence during the intervention.
Authors: Weber, J., Fahmie, T., Walker, S. G.,
Lambert, J., Copeland, B., Freetly, T., Zangrillo, A. N.
Journal:Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
Year: 2024
Volume: 57 (1)
DOI: 10.1002/jaba.1078
Understanding factors that influence the efficacy of functional communication training has both practical and conceptual benefits. The current study extended research in this area by exploring data from 95 consecutive applications of functional communication training with extinction across two independent clinics. We identified and evaluated several predictor variables associated with treatment outcomes.
Authors: Walker, S. G., Carr J.E.
Journal:Behavior Analysis in Practice
Year: 2021
DOI: 10.1007/s40617-020-00547-3
There is a common misconception in applied research that generalizations from a study to a specific client can only be made with a large sample size. In single-case design research, however, generalizations are made from a line of replication studies rather than from a single large-N study. In this brief tutorial, we summarize how generalizations are made from single-case design research, and provide a model elevator speech to assist behavior analysts in talking about single-case design research with others.
Authors: Walker, S. G., Sellers, T. P.
Journal:Journal of Organizational Behavior Management
Year: 2021
DOI: 10.1080/01608061.2021.1903647
Feedback is a common intervention used to address performance issues in clinical and organizational settings. Most research on feedback focuses on manipulating either the parameters of feedback delivery or the behavior of the feedback provider. Because feedback requires a provider and a recipient, it is likely that the behavior of the feedback recipient also influences the impact of performance feedback. The current study investigated the efficacy of training individuals to receive feedback in an appropriate manner using computer-based instruction (CBI). All three participants demonstrated increases in accuracy of appropriate feedback behaviors following CBI. Two participants also demonstrated slight increases in performance on tasks related to workplace performance. This study extends the application of CBI to a new and complex skill repertoire and examines its possible impact on work performance. We discuss how CBI may increase training efficiency in settings with large numbers of staff who need to be trained in certain skills as compared to traditional in-person training formats.
Authors: Walker, S. G., Mattson, S. L., Sellers, T. P.
Journal:Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis
Year: 2020
DOI: 10.1002/jaba.694
Several studies have examined the efficacy of behavior analytic coaching strategies in sports to increase performance fluency. Rock climbing is a multifaceted sport requiring mastery of several complex behavior chains in order to successfully navigate climbing surfaces. To date, most investigations have focused on the physiological aspects of rock climbing, as opposed to training specific rock-climbing movements. In this replication and extension, researchers used a multiple baseline design across skills to examine an expert video modeling plus video and verbal feedback training package on foundational rock-climbing skills of novice adult climbers. Results demonstrated that all participants showed an increase in accurate performance for all three skills that were targeted in the intervention.
Authors: Walker, S. G., White, A., Zangrillo, A. N., Sellers, T. P., Fahmie, T. A.
Journal:Behavior Analysis Research and Practice
Year: 2022
DOI: 10.1037/bar0000243
Current strategies to ensure compliance with needle-based medical procedures in populations with intellectual or developmental disabilities can have negative side effects, which include the use of restrictive practices, especially when patients exhibit challenging behavior. Using behavioral strategies may be a safer and effective alternative to traditional approaches. In the current study we sought to provide a scoping review of the research on the use of behavioral strategies to increase compliance with needle-based medical procedures. We analyzed research efficacy at both the study level and individual level to determine the impact of behavioral strategies on (a) compliance with needle-based medical procedures and (b) reduction of challenging behavior.
Authors: Martinez, S. E., Walker, S. G., Zangrillo, A. N., Graham, A. N.
Journal:Clinical Case Studies
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1177/15346501231184269
We evaluated the effects of differential reinforcement without extinction and stimulus fading on compliance and reduction of destructive behavior with a 25-step sleep study procedure. Our approach successfully taught tolerance of the procedure and reduced destructive behavior. The client completed the scheduled sleep study and received a diagnosis of mild obstructive sleep apnea.
Authors: Hess, B. H., Walker, S. G., Sellers, T. P.
Journal:European Journal of Behavior Analysis
Year: 2022
DOI: 10.1080/15021149.2022.2134960
We used the PDC-HS to assess inaccurate book-shelf cleaning by three participants with intellectual disabilities in supported employment services at a library. We identified insufficient training and prompting as barriers to accurate and timely performance. We evaluated behavioral skills training, video modeling with voice-over instruction, and prompting on accuracy for all participants and timeliness for one participant. All participants exhibited increased accuracy on the shelf-cleaning task. One participant showed an increase in timeliness of completion, and one participant maintained and generalized performance after the training phase.
I'm always open to discussing research opportunities and potential collaborations.
Get In Touch