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World Behavior Analysis Day

An awareness observance on March 20 promoting the science of behavior analysis and its contributions to improving the human condition, honoring B.F. Skinner's birthday.

Saturday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 20

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYCareer Development

ORIGIN

Institutional Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

Elizabeth Drago

FIRST OBSERVED

2021

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Elizabeth Drago, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and NYSABA board member, originated the idea after observing legislators' lack of awareness about behavior analysis. She pitched it to NYSABA and collaborated with approximately 12 behavior analysis organizations; the day was proclaimed in December 2020 and first observed on March 20, 2021, coinciding with B.F. Skinner's birthday.

Institutional Recordvia nationaldayarchives.com

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On March 20, we celebrate the power of behavior analysis on World Behavior Analysis Day! This day was first established by the Association for Behavior Analysis International in 2017 to raise awareness and recognize the positive impact that behavior analysis has on individuals and society. From helping children with developmental disabilities to improving workplace performance, behavior analysis plays a crucial role in shaping behaviors and creating positive change. So let's take a moment to appreciate all the hard work and dedication of behavior analysts around the world on this special day!

TIMELINE

World Behavior Analysis Day Timeline

John B. Watson's Behaviorism

John B. Watson published an article advocating behaviorism, laying the groundwork for later developments in behavior analysis.

B.F. Skinner's Operant Conditioning

Psychologist B.F. Skinner introduces the concept of operant conditioning, a fundamental principle in behavior analysis.

Verbal Behavior Publication

B.F. Skinner publishes "Verbal Behavior", describing how the principles of behaviorism can be applied to language learning.

Establishment of ABAI

The founding of the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI), an organization dedicated to the growth and development of behavior analysis.

ABA Therapy for Autism

Researcher Ivar Lovaas demonstrates that Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can make significant improvements in children with autism, validating its widespread use.

First World Behavior Analysis Day

The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) officially establishes March 20 as World Behavior Analysis Day to raise awareness about the field.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate World Behavior Analysis Day

Spread awareness

Use social media to spread awareness about World Behavior Analysis Day. Share informative articles and resources, and use hashtags like #WorldBehaviorAnalysisDay to reach a larger audience.

ATTEND

Attend a conference or workshop

Check for any conferences or workshops related to behavior analysis in your area and attend them to learn more about the field and meet like-minded individuals.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer with a local organization

Contact a local organization that focuses on behavior analysis and offer to volunteer your time and skills. This is a great way to give back and support the community.

HOST

Host a discussion or workshop

Gather some friends or colleagues who are interested in behavior analysis and host a discussion or workshop about the importance and impact of this field in our society.

CELEBRATE

Celebrate with behavior-focused activities

Plan a day filled with activities that highlight the principles of behavior analysis, such as reinforcement-based games, role-playing scenarios, or problem-solving challenges.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why World Behavior Analysis Day is Important

It promotes positive change in society

Behavior analysis focuses on not just individual behavior, but also societal behavior. By promoting effective and ethical practices, World Behavior Analysis Day helps create a better society for all. Through education, advocacy, and outreach, this holiday encourages meaningful change and progress.

It brings awareness to the field of behavior analysis

World Behavior Analysis Day is an opportunity to educate others about the importance and impact of behavior analysis in our daily lives. By spreading knowledge and understanding, more people can benefit from the principles and techniques of behavior analysis.

It recognizes the contributions of behavior analysts

Behavior analysts work tirelessly to help individuals improve their behaviors and live fulfilling lives. World Behavior Analysis Day is a chance to celebrate and honor these professionals who make a significant impact on their clients' lives every day.

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