LETTER TO THE EDITOR Changing behaviour change: The case for a Global Association of Applied Behavioural Scientists

Abstract

It is unlikely that you would recommend to a friend that they follow the legal advice of an individual who had merely skimmed a copy of a popular law book. Although the same maxim should extend to applied behavioural sciences, recommending whom to consult for legitimate behavioural science advice is a difficult task because the discipline is both rapidly growing and unregulated. Reports from both academics and qualified practitioners suggest an increasing number of agencies and consultancies now offer behavioural science services, some whose experience and qualifications extend to little more than ‘having read Nudge’. Currently, no professional society exists that serves the public interest by offering guidance to individuals or companies commissioning behavioural advice, and which also represents the interests of bona-fide applied behavioural scientists. We argue that the time is right for a Global Association of Applied Behavioural Scientists.