What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the scientific study of behavior and learning.
ABA is defined as the science in which the principles of the analysis of behavior are applied systematically to improve socially significant behavior, in which experimentation is used to identify the variable responsible for the change in behavior. (Cooper, Heron, & Heward) In other words, it is the use of techniques, such as positive reinforcement, consequence management, and how learning takes place, to bring about meaningful and positive change in behavior for the individuals we serve. Positive reinforcement is when something preferred follows a behavior and in turn that behavior is more likely to happen in the future.
ABA is endorsed as an effective treatment for autism by the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the U.S. Surgeon General. Behavior analysts began working with young children with autism and related disorders in the 1960s. Since then research has continued to produce well over 500 articles studying effective techniques for developing useful skills in learners from toddlers to adulthood.
One of the core features of ABA is that it is data-based. With this therapy, we create individualized goals for our students and take data on those goals to monitor progress. We are able to tailor each treatment plan we write to the needs of the individual we are serving.
An ABA program consists of a team of highly trained caring individuals. Within the team, a Licensed & Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) oversees the programs that are implemented by the therapist. The therapist is the person that works hands-on with the students that we serve, implementing programs and tracking progress. Programs target things such as challenging behaviors, social skills, communication skills, daily living skills, and much more. ABA therapy can take place in a wide variety of settings including in-home, in the center, and within the community. The location depends on what is most advantageous for the student and could potentially take place in all three settings. Programs can be comprehensive or focused depending on the needs of the student and could last a couple of months across the lifespan of an individual depending on the level of need.
An ABA program will begin with an initial consultation, followed by an initial assessment, planning, and ongoing assessment to determine the appropriate goals for the student and the effectiveness of the goals and techniques used. Once the treatment plan is created therapists will be matched with the student and begin ongoing services. The BCBA conducts monthly to weekly supervision and parent meetings, depending on the need, to update the students’ plan accordingly and guide caregivers and staff in implementing the plan. Our plans include summaries of assessments, background on the student, techniques for preventing, managing, and teaching behavior, specific learning goals, and a fade-out timeline. When necessary a specialized crisis management plan will also be created along with any social stories or teaching materials. Our goals are to help the individuals we serve and their caregivers to lead happy, healthy, and productive lives.