ABA is considered an evidence-based “best” practice treatment by the US Surgeon General and by the American Psychological Association. “Evidence based” means that ABA has passed scientific tests of its usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. As a science, Applied behavior analysis (ABA), can be described as a systematic approach of understanding behavior of social interest. ABA uses scientific observations and principles of behavior to improve and change behaviors of social interest.
As a practice, ABA refers to the application of behavior analytic principles to improve socially important behaviors. It has a proven track record helping children within the spectrum to overcome most of its symptoms and producing meaningful and lifelong developmental growth. Our ABA professionals use kids’ real potential to help them acquire a broad repertoire of skills while implementing strategies to decrease problem behaviors. ABA therapy includes many different techniques. All of these techniques focus on antecedents (what happens before a behavior occurs) and on consequences (what happens after the behavior). One technique is “positive reinforcement.” When a behavior is followed by something that is valued (a reward), that behavior is more likely to be repeated. ABA uses positive reinforcement in a way that can be measured in order to help bring about meaningful behavior change.
The good news is that, even when there are a variety of behaviors, there are only four (4) possible functions for each and every one of them. Behavior may occur for one or more than one, of these 4 reasons: Escape, Attention, Access, and Automatic Reinforcement.
A child’s autism diagnosis affects every member of the family in different ways. Facing the diagnosis is the first step for overcoming.
To make it easier, reinforcers are those things ( tangibles, edibles or actions) that will keep up our child’s motivation during the learning process. Reinforcers are the most valuable tool that therapists, teachers and parents have when teaching our children. Chocolate, ice cream, tickles, money, playing with the dog, getting high fives… the list is just, as rich as individuals preferences and interests are.
This tool kit is an informational guide to Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA). It is designed to provide you with a better understanding of ABA, how your child can benefit, and where/how you can seek ABA services. Download the pdf and contact us if you have questions. We are here to help!
