Principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied behavior analysis is a scientific approach to understanding behavior and how it is affected by environmental variables. Behavior refers to all kinds of actions and skills (not just misbehavior), and environmental variables include all sorts of physical and social events that might change or be changed by one's behavior. The science of behavior analysis focuses on principles (that is, general laws) about how behavior works, or how learning takes place. For example, one principle of behavior analysis is positive reinforcement: When a behavior is followed by something that is valued (a “reward”), that behavior is likely to be repeated. Through decades of research, the field of behavior analysis has developed many techniques for increasing appropriate, functional behaviors and reducing those that may be harmful or that interfere with learning. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the use of those techniques and principles to address socially significant problems, and to bring about meaningful behavior change. Individuals who practice ABA are responsible for being familiar with current research regarding effective treatment and planning. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board provides conduct guidelines for all practitioners and clearly states that Behavior Analysts should rely on scientifically and professionally derived knowledge when making decisions about the services they are providing. This helps to ensure that ABA based interventions are continually monitored and analyzed for treatment efficacy.
Positive Reinforcement
Extinction
Stimulus Control
Generalization
Types of Therapeutic Procedures
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) encompasses many techniques to enhance the client's quality of life by reducing behaviors that interfere with participation in typical daily life. Through strong, scientifically validated schedules of reinforcement, the trained ABA professional will introduce, teach and strengthen new skills aimed at enhancing the client's ability to fully participate and enjoy all aspects of life. ABA often involves intensive therapy of 20 to 40 hours per week by a trained behavior tech and frequent supervision by a certified behavior analyst. Programming is individualized, based on each client's unique needs, and procedures used may include the following:
Discrete Trial Training
Natural Environment Training
Chaining
Shaping
Preference Assessment
Service Settings
Applied behavior analysis services are often provided in the specific environments where problem behaviors occur and/or skill deficiencies create a barrier to successful, independent living. Some of these include:
Family Homes
Group Homes
Preschool/Child Care Centers
After-school Programs
Community Parks
Recreational / Sports Settings
Shopping Centers / Malls
Restaurants
Group Homes
Preschool/Child Care Centers
After-school Programs
Community Parks
Recreational / Sports Settings
Shopping Centers / Malls
Restaurants