Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific discipline concerned with applying techniques based upon the principles of learning to change behavior of social significance. ABA is a well-developed approach to understanding and changing behavior and is used in a variety of settings, including clinical, educational, and organizational environments.

History

The roots of ABA can be traced back to the early work of B.F. Skinner, who developed the theory of operant conditioning. Skinner's work laid the foundation for the development of behavior analysis as a scientific discipline. The term "Applied Behavior Analysis" was first used in 1968 in the inaugural issue of the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis.

Principles of ABA

ABA is based on several key principles:

• Reinforcement: A process by which a behavior is strengthened by the consequences that follow it. Positive reinforcement involves the presentation of a stimulus following a behavior that increases the likelihood of that behavior occurring in the future.

• Punishment: A process by which a behavior is weakened by the consequences that follow it. Punishment can involve the presentation of an aversive stimulus or the removal of a reinforcing stimulus.

• Extinction: The process by which a previously reinforced behavior is weakened by no longer providing reinforcement.

• Stimulus Control: The process by which a behavior is more likely to occur in the presence of a specific stimulus due to a history of reinforcement in the presence of that stimulus.

Techniques and Procedures

ABA employs a variety of techniques and procedures to bring about behavior change, including:

• Discrete Trial Training (DTT): A structured method of teaching that involves breaking down skills into small, "discrete" components and teaching each component individually.

• Natural Environment Teaching (NET): Teaching skills in the natural environment where they are typically used, rather than in a structured setting.

• Task Analysis: Breaking down complex tasks into smaller, teachable steps.

• Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA): A process for identifying the function or purpose of a behavior, which informs the development of effective interventions.

Applications

ABA is widely used in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), where it is considered one of the most effective interventions. It is also used in a variety of other areas, including:

• Education: ABA techniques are used to teach academic skills, social skills, and daily living skills.

• Organizational Behavior Management: ABA principles are applied to improve performance and productivity in organizational settings.

• Behavioral Medicine: ABA is used to promote healthy behaviors and manage chronic health conditions.

Ethical Considerations

Practitioners of ABA must adhere to ethical guidelines to ensure that interventions are in the best interest of the client. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) provides a code of ethics that guides the practice of behavior analysts.

See Also

• Behaviorism
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Positive Behavior Support

References

• Cooper, J. O., Heron, T. E., & Heward, W. L. (2007). Applied Behavior Analysis (2nd ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
• Skinner, B. F. (1953). Science and Human Behavior. New York: Macmillan.

External Links

• Behavior Analyst Certification Board
• Association for Behavior Analysis International