Often solely associated with treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder, applied behavior analysis (ABA) was not created to target a particular affiliation. It is a scientific approach to problem solving targeted towards the improvement of socially significant behavior (decrease of undesirable behavior or increase of desirable behaviors). The goal of ABA is to improve the quality of life for the individual and their families. The early foundation of ABA was laid in the 1900s but was not identified as a suitable approach for those with Autism.
ABA is an umbrella term that covers many styles of teaching/treatment, such as Verbal Behavior (VB), Natural Environment Teaching (NET), and Discrete Trial Training (DTT). Those in the behavior analytic field mainly work in behavior reduction and skill acquisition. ABA Therapy incorporates behavioral techniques such as reinforcement, prompting, and differential reinforcement to bring about behavior change. Strengths are identified or taught, then generalized and expanded upon while deficits are replaced with appropriate skills in order to support the individual in achieving independence in their environment. Behavior reduction and skill acquisition are closely connected when it comes to ABA and typically occur simultaneously.
ABA is not only for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The principles of the science can also be applied to health/fitness/wellness, traumatic brain injuries, organizations (business), substance use/abuse, and gerontology.
References
Drossel, C., & Trahan, M. A. (2015). Behavioral interventions are first-line treatments for managing changes associated with cognitive decline. The Behavior Therapist, 38(5), 126-131.
Heinicke, M. R., & Carr, J. E. (2014). Applied behavior analysis in acquired brain injury rehabilitation: A metaanalysis of single-case design intervention research. Behavioral Interventions, 29, 77-105.
Normand, M. P., Dallery, J., & Ong, T. (2015). Applied behavior analysis for health and fitness. In H. S. Roane, J. E. Ringdahl, & T. S. Falcomata (Eds.), Clinical and organizational applications of applied behavior analysis (pp. 555–582). Waltham, MA: Academic Press/ Elsevier.