Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is used to teach children social and daily life skills by breaking down these behaviors into a series of clear steps. ABA holds that all behavior serves a purpose and is a form of communication. For example, a child who is having a tantrum may be communicating they are hungry. Knowing what the child is trying to communicate helps the child learn more effective strategies for behaving and obtaining what they are seeking.
What ABA Helps
ABA is commonly utilized with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), many of who may lack verbal skills, but is used to manage other concerns as well. ABA can help to increase abilities in the following areas:
- Communication skills
- Language
- Attention
- Focus
- Social skills
- Memory
- Academics
- Emotional regulation
How Treatment Works
ABA is personalized to the child and can occur in a variety of settings, including at home or in schools. Treatment can be conducted in either a group or individual setting. Three primary components are identified for each behavior:
- Antecedents-What occurs immediately before the behavior
- Behavior-The child’s response
- Consequence-What occurs immediately after the behavior
Examining antecedents helps to identify triggers for the behavior to determine whether the actions of others or the environment can be modified to change the behavior of the child. Investigating the consequences helps to assess whether the reactions of others can be altered. Further, goal behaviors are identified and rewarded to increase the likelihood of positive behaviors occurring in the future.
Who Does ABA
A behavioral analyst (BCBA) designs the ABA program for the child by examining their unique strengths and challenges. The BCBA then supervises therapists who implement the plan, teach the child skills, and gather data.
ABA is generally intensive (i.e., 25-40 hours per week) and long term (multiple years), but is highly supported by research. If your child is struggling significantly with the areas outlined above, seeking out trained ABA providers can offer the help they need.
Reference:
Autism Speaks. (2019). Applied behavioral analysis. Retrieved from https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis-aba-0
McEvoy, R.E., Gangwish, K., & Jones, M. (2016). Child decoded: Unlocking complex issues in your child’s behavior, learning and attention. Louisville, CO: L.E.A.R.N., LLC.