Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a discipline that seeks to positively affect human behavior by making socially significant changes. It is an empirically validated method used to teach skills to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Hundreds of studies have proven the effectiveness of ABA in teaching individuals new skills, as well as decreasing challenging behavior.

ABA intervention focuses on:

• Reinforcement: A consequence that increases the probability of a behavior happening again in the future (for example, Saying “Amazing job!” to a learner who enjoys social praise).

• Motivation of Learner: Identifying what motivates a learner is key to effective intervention (for example, Using paper dolls to help someone learn adjectives - “What color dress should I put on her?”)

• Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA): This is a process used to understand the reason (i.e., the function of) a challenging behavior to best inform an effective intervention.

ABA has been endorsed by the following:

• The United States Surgeon General

• Association for Science in Autism Treatment

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

• American Psychological Association

• National Institute of Health

• Autism Speaks

• The Academy of Pediatrics