What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

With over 40 years of extensive research documenting its effectiveness, applied behavior analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based treatment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ABA is used to produce meaningful changes in skills and behaviors through increasing positive skills and behaviors and decreasing challenging behaviors. ABA utilizes direct observation, data collection and measurement, and analysis of the environment and behavior. Through functional behavior assessments and subsequent positive behavior intervention plans, which include proactive prevention strategies, teaching new skills, and reinforcement and consequence strategies, ABA treats challenging behavior utilizing a comprehensive person-centered perspective that aims to achieve maximum outcomes.

ABA has been recognized as a safe and effective treatment by numerous organizations and agencies, including Autism Speaks, the American Academy of Pediatrics journal Pediatrics, the Center for Disease Control, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the Surgeon General of the United States, and the Organization for Autism Research.

ABA treatment can be in any of the following areas and is dependent on individual need.

• Adaptive and self-care skills

• Academics, Cognitive functioning and learning

• Community inclusion

• Coping and tolerance skills

• Language and communication

• Play and leisure skills

• Reduction of challenging behavior

• Safety skills

• Self-advocacy and independent living skills

• Self-management skills

• Social and emotional skills

• Vocational skills