Defining and Measuring Indices of Happiness and Unhappiness in Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Jennifer Posey, MA, BCBA, is a doctoral student in Applied Behavior Analysis at Endicott College, where she is interested in the acquisition and advancement of language skills with early learners and producing joy-filled, meaningful outcomes for children with autism. She studies under the advisement of Mark Dixon, Ph.D. She received her master’s degree in Special Education and subsequently pursued certification in Applied Behavior Analysis. Jennifer has worked with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities across the lifespan since 1999. She has a special interest in establishing foundational repertoires in early childhood such that more advanced skill acquisition can emerge, as well as prevention of severe problem behavior. Jennifer currently oversees clinical services at Achieve Behavior Change, located on the Central Coast and in the Central Valley of California. She also teaches coursework in Endicott's Master's degree program for applied behavior analysis.