What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis is an evidence-based science that is focused on learning and behavior. ABA applies the understanding of behavior and how the environment affects behavior to increase learning helpful behaviors and decrease behaviors that are harmful or impede learning.
ABA is not a specific treatment, but an approach to treatment that allows an ABA practitioner to use a variety of techniques that work best for the individual.
A professional field that uses principles of learning to increase performance of socially desirable behaviors. It always relies upon the collection of objective data to measure performance and the effectiveness of an intervention.
How can ABA help?
Increase socially significant behaviors: language and communication, social skills, daily living skills, increase independence
Decrease problem behavior
What are some common strategies that are used in ABA?
- Reinforcement
- Functional communication
- Behavioral skills training
Are the same practices used with everyone who received consultative services?
No, each behavior support plan that we create is individualized for the learner. While there are common strategies that are used in ABA practice, we do not use plans and protocols that will not help each individual we serve to be successful.
Can consultative services collaborate with other therapies such as speech, OT, or PT?
Absolutely! Collaborating with other therapies an individual may be involved in will help to promote generalization and maintenance of a BSP.
Isn’t ABA just for kids with Autism?
Not at all. Applied Behavior Analysis works for everyone because it is based on the scientific principles of behavior. We all behave, it’s what we do. Whenever we do anything, we are more likely to keep doing it if it “pays-off” in some way. If it doesn’t pay off for us, we are less likely to keep doing it. When we analyze behavior and learn why someone is doing what they do, that is the function. We all (every one of us) do certain things to get what we want, to get away from something we don’t want, and sometimes, we do something just because it feels good to us. That doesn’t change because of a disability or when a child grows into an adult.