What Is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding and improving behavior based on the principles of learning. ABA focuses on socially significant behaviors to create an immediate, meaningful change in an individual’s life.
ABA is a systematic, objective approach that
includes direct observations and quantifiable measures of behavior. By measuring behavior, the impact of specific interventions is easily evaluated, enabling us to monitor your child’s performance and modify strategies, as needed.
Skill Building
Behavioral treatment for children with autism or other delays usually includes highly structured ABA skill acquisition programs also known as discrete trial training (DTT). As a child acquires skills, more naturalistic interventions are introduced.
These interventions teach skills in natural situations in which they occur (e.g., putting on a coat before recess, greeting the teacher when arriving at school).
ABA skill acquisition programs generally include the following:
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Learning to learn skills (sitting at work table, looking at educational materials, following simple directions, imitating modeled behavior such as clap hands)
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Speech and communication
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Play skills (showing interest in toys, using toys as intended)
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Social awareness (notices person who enters room)
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Social skills (waving hello/goodbye, approaching peers, simple turn taking)
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Independent living skills (tying shoes, washing hands, zipping coat)
Behavior Reduction
Behavioral treatment can also include reducing problem behaviors. This requires a comprehensive assessment (FBA) to better understand the behavior(s) and develop a reduction plan.