What is ABA

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding behavior and is best known for its success in treating individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities. While most recognizable in the treatment of children with developmental disabilities, the science of ABA is regularly used to change socially important behavior in meaningful ways. These “socially important” behaviors may include communication, and language, social skill, and adaptive behavior such as eating and toileting. The science of ABA is also regularly used to improve performance in a variety of fields, such as education, organization and business management, and sports.

ABA refers to a set of principles that focus on how behaviors change, or are affected by the environment, as well as how learning takes place. Treatment in this area is effective across an individual’s lifespan (i.e., childhood, adolescence, adulthood). In young children with developmental disabilities such as ASD, the goal of intensive, comprehensive intervention is to improve cognitive, language, social, and self-help skills.

The ultimate goal of ABA is to establish,  enhance and sustain socially important behaviors. 

Decades of research have shown that intensive ABA treatment is the most successful approach for children with autism, and it is widely recognized by many sources including the U.S. Surgeon General, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the National Institute of Mental Health. When applied to older individuals, ABA involves teaching behaviors essential to functioning effectively in the home, school, and community. ABA can also decrease severe problem behaviors that endanger health and safety, and limit educational, residential, or vocational options.