What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?
How do we learn? And how do certain diagnoses, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, affect learning? The reality is that a great deal of research has been done on learning theory and trying to understand why individuals behave the way they do.
Why do we keep some New Year’s Resolutions, and not others?
Why does “ignore it until it goes away” work...sometimes?
Where did grandma come up with the phrase, “First eat your vegetables and then you can have your dessert?” – and why has it stood the test of time?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), is the vast body of research into the principles of behavior – why we do what we do – translated into real life settings. ABA has been endorsed by the US Surgeon General as an effective therapeutic intervention for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and is the basis for our clients' therapeutic programming at Above and Beyond Learning Group.
Myths and facts about ABA
Myth #1: ABA is a “one-size-fits-all” approach
Fact: It is highly individualized approach. Behavior assessments/interventions consider unique needs as do teaching procedures, programs, and items selected for teaching. Also important to remember is that ABA is a science...it evolves! The ABA of today looks quite different from the ABA of decades ago.
Myth #2: Other approaches have been shown to be just as effective as ABA
Fact: ABA continues to be the only treatment endorsed by the US Surgeon General. In addition, systematic research has been conducted and, with objective data, documented the effects of ABA interventions.
Myth #3: ABA = DTI
Fact: Discrete Trial Instruction (DTI) is a specific instruction strategy that can be used within ABA but should not define the science. ABA is a scientific approach, DTI is just one particular teaching strategy. Also, modern ABA practices readily make use of naturalistic teaching.
Myth #4: ABA is just an autism treatment
Fact: Although ABA is often talked about in the context of being used with individuals with autism, ABA is not limited to being an “autism treatment.” Principles/components of ABA are experienced every day in general education settings, rehab facilities, hospitals, and offices.