Applied Behavioral Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific method of changing behaviors across settings. This data driven, therapeutic intervention has been very successful with children 21 years and younger diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).The goal of Applied Behavioral Analysis is to increase behaviors that are helpful and decrease behaviors that are harmful or impede learning. ABA services work to identify the reason target behaviors are occurring (the function of the behavior). Once the reason, or function of the behavior has been identified, a three-term contingency model (or ABC model) is used to facilitate behavior change. The ABC model focuses on not only the target behavior itself, but also by focuses on the events occurring in the environment prior to a target behavior (antecedent) and immediately following a target behavior (consequences). Using this information, ABA employs a systematic approach of implementing rewards and punishments to modify specific behaviors based on the function of the behavior (Cooper, Heron, & Heward, 2007).Behavioral Analysis is an individualized approach to behavior change that can be implemented in all settings.