| This dissertation is a theoretical exploration of the application of Behavior Analysis to the understanding of conflict and violence across a range of settings. The topic is important since conflict and violence, in their various forms (i.e., school violence, neighborhood bullying, domestic violence, child abuse, conflict in the workplace, homicide, suicide, ethnic conflict, genocide, civil war, terrorism, major war, etc.), impact the lives of millions of people around the globe each year at great cost (i.e., human, economic, etc.) to individuals, families, communities, governments, and societies. While various theories have attempted to explain the dynamics of conflict and/or violence, none of those reviewed by this author could be applied to all cases across the spectrum. It was, therefore, proposed that the "Applied Behavior Analysis Model" (i.e., "ABA Model") be considered as a useful theoretical framework for better understanding conflict and violence across a range of cases at both the macro and micro levels.;Although Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) normally uses quantitative techniques based on the scientific method, due to ethical and practical constraints, a qualitative interpretive analysis of historical and current cases of conflict and/or violence was conducted at both the macro and micro levels using the ABA Model. The key goals were to better understand past cases and predict future occurrences of conflict and/or violence across the spectrum by analyzing the dependent variable/behavior of interest (i.e., "conflict" or "violence") and independent variables (i.e., setting events, antecedents, consequences, whether behavior was reinforced or punished, and what functions were served by the behavior) according to the ABA Model using open-source information discussed in the narrative format and displayed in tables and other graphics. Results suggested that (1) the ABA Model can be employed to better understand conflict and/or violence across a range of situations at both the macro and micro levels and (2) the ABA Model can be used to provide early warning of an increased likelihood of conflict and/or violence occurring involving certain groups of people, in a certain location, within a specified timeframe, although with some limitations. The potential implications of these findings are also discussed. |
