What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
So you’ve heard the term ABA Therapy and how successful it can be when working with challenging behavior, but what exactly is ABA? By definition, Applied Behavior Analysis (or ABA), is a discipline devoted to the understanding and improvement of human behavior. The principles of ABA can be applied to educational programs with the goal of increasing or decreasing a particular behavior, whether you want to stop an interfering behavior or teach a new behavior.
ABA Services
At the core of ABA Therapy, is the approach that every observable behavior has a function and by observing the targeted behavior and determining the function, an appropriate replacement behavior can be taught.
Functions of behavior can stem from escaping a demand to attempting to gain a tangible item, or seeking attention, even if it is negative attention. Behaviors can also function as a means to seek sensory stimulation. One of the first goals to beginning an ABA-based program is to observe the child’s behavior and record what happens right before the behavior (antecedent) and what happens directly after the behavior (consequence). This information helps to determine the function or functions of each behavior. Once a function for the behavior is identified, behavior therapists then work on systemically shaping the behavior, through the use of positive reinforcement, to a more appropriate replacement behavior, in other words to replace the undesired behavior/s.
In an ABA program, lessons are broken down into their simplest elements. ABA focuses on teaching small, measurable units of behaviour systematically. Creating a positive and fun learning environment facilitates the learning process in all domains including social, play, and language. In this way, simple responses are built systematically into complex and fluid combinations of typical, age-appropriate responses. It is important to keep in mind that ABA is a set of guiding principles in which educational and behavioral programs are developed and not a specific program within itself. We offer one-to-one intensive ABA programs in the home setting, school setting and community, and center-based.
Whole Child Approach to ABA
At A.C.C.E.S.S. Inc., we use the guiding principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), but what differentiates our company is our emphasis on the Whole Child approach. We understand each child is unique and is a part of a family and community with its own circumstances and values. We look at every element surrounding your child such as sensory experiences, learning styles, his/her interest, and social interactions to develop an individualized program. Our programs are focused on developing every aspect of a child’s life to promote success in the home, community, and school setting.
We have identified six key areas that are essential for a child to be successful in every environment attention to task, active participation/engagement, problem-solving skills, social skills, communication, and compliance. It is within these six areas that our staff teaches age-appropriate concepts and skills.