What is ABA?

What is Applied Behavior Analysis? 

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior.

Behavior analysis helps us to understand:

  • How behavior works
  • How behavior is affected by the environment
  • How learning takes place

ABA therapy applies our understanding of how behavior works to real situations. The goal is to increase behaviors that are helpful and decrease behaviors that are harmful or affect learning.

ABA therapy programs can help:
  • Increase language and communication skills
  • Improve attention, focus, social skills, memory, and academics
  • Decrease problem behaviors

How does ABA therapy work?

Applied Behavior Analysis involves many techniques for understanding and changing behavior. ABA is a flexible treatment:

  • Can be adapted to meet the needs of each unique person
  • Provided in many different locations – at home, at school, and in the community
  • Teaches skills that are useful in everyday life
  • Can involve one-to-one teaching or group instruction

What does an ABA program involve?

  • Good ABA programs for autism are not “one size fits all.” ABA should not be viewed as a canned set of drills. Rather, each program is written to meet the needs of the individual learner.
  • The goal of any ABA program is to help each person work on skills that will help them become more independent and successful in the short term as well as in the future.

ABA techniques and philosophy

  • The instructor uses a variety of ABA procedures. Some are directed by the instructor and others are directed by the person with autism.
  • Parents, family members and caregivers receive training so they can support learning and skill practice throughout the day.
  • The person with autism will have many opportunities to learn and practice skills each day. This can happen in both planned and naturally occurring situations. For instance, someone learning to greet others by saying “hello” may get the chance to practice this skill in the classroom with their teacher (planned) and on the playground at recess (naturally occurring).
  • The learner receives an abundance of positive reinforcement for demonstrating useful skills and socially appropriate behaviors. The emphasis is on positive social interactions and enjoyable learning.
  • The learner receives no reinforcement for behaviors that pose harm or prevent learning.

  • ABA is effective for people of all ages. It can be used from early childhood through adulthood!

Who provides ABA services?

Board Certified ABA professionals provide ABA therapy services.