“Applied behavior analysis employs methods based on scientific principles of behavior to build socially useful repertories and reduce problematic ones”
(Cooper, Heron, and Howard, 1989)
Behavior analysis focuses on the fact that behaviors are learned through interaction and feedback from the environment. Behavior analysts study the reasons why behaviors occur, using direct observation and experimentation. The study of the science of behavior analysis is the study of an objective method to determine why behavior occurs and correspondingly, how to alter such behavior. Behavior analysts use the principles of behavior to alter socially significant behavior by changing existing behaviors, teaching new behaviors, and teaching discrimination of socially appropriate uses of behaviors in different settings. In behavior analysis, interventions are consistently evaluated to determine their effectiveness.
SO what’s the hype about ABA? ABA is based on more than 60 years of scientific investigation with individuals affected by a wide range of behavioral and developmental disorders. The National Standards Project provides critical information about effective treatments for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. ABA is a major methodological component for 3 out of the 11 treatments cited as being “Established” (i.e. established as effective). ABA strategies such as reinforcement, prompting, and establishing motivation are components of 7 of the remaining 8 established interventions.
As a behavior analyst, I work with children and adolescents with behavioral and developmental disorders. My clients often have a diagnosis of autism, but it is a common misconception that ABA is strictly for persons with autism. Behavior analysts work in a wide array of areas including anxiety, parenting, marital conflict, gerontology, behavioral medicine, animal training, addiction, crime and delinquency, education, and organizational management- just to name a few. The scientific principles are what makeup ABA, not the way in which it is implemented within any given setting or with any given individual.
To learn more, check out these websites:
Information about the National Standard’s Project
http://www.nationalautismcenter.org/nsp/
Information about certification as a behavior analyst and certificate registry