Improving lives through lasting changes

What is Applied Behavior Analysis?

What is ABA?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-based science focused on understanding behavior and how it is affected by the environment. In practice, ABA uses proven behavioral principles to help individuals increase meaningful skills and reduce challenging behaviors to improve daily functioning and quality of life.

ABA therapy board illustration

How ABA Works?

ABA involves a structured yet flexible process to create lasting behavior change:

Functional Assessment

Functional Assessment

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Functional Assessment

Behavior analysts begin by observing the person to identify triggers (antecedents) and consequences that maintain behaviors.

Personalized Treatment Planning

Personalized Treatment Planning

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Personalized Treatment Planning

Based on assessment data, a customized plan is developed with clear goals that support skill building and behavior change.

Implementation of Techniques

Implementation of Techniques

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Implementation of Techniques

Common ABA teaching methods include:

  • Positive reinforcement
  • Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
  • Natural Environment Teaching (NET)
  • Prompt fading and skill chaining
  • Augmentative communication strategies
Data-Driven Progress Monitoring

Data-Driven Progress Monitoring

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Data-Driven Progress Monitoring

ABA relies on ongoing measurement of behavior so that interventions can be adjusted based on what's working — not guesswork.

Benefits of ABA

ABA has decades of research showing its effectiveness in promoting positive change.

People who engage in ABA can experience:

Customized learning plans

Improved social skills and communication

Better independence in daily life

Strengthened coping strategies

Involvement of families and caregivers in progress

What is Positive Behavior Supports?

Positive behavior support (PBS) is an individualized, research-based process that incorporates the principles of applied behavior analysis and person and family-centered practices.

Therapist and child playing with building blocks

PBS Components

Learn why this approach is so successful.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About ABA & Positive Behavior Support