Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the design, implementation and evaluation of environmental modifications to produce socially significant improvements in behavior. ABA includes the use of direct observation, measurement and functional analysis of the relations between environment and behavior. Based on the findings of descriptive and functional analyses, ABA uses antecedents and consequences to produce practical change. ABA is based on sound scientific principles and has a solid research foundation that proves its effectiveness. ABA is based on the belief that an individual’s behavior is determined by past and current environmental events in conjunction with organic variables such as genetics. Thus, it focuses on explaining behavior in terms of external events (that can be manipulated) rather than internal constructs (that are beyond our control). Applied behavior analysts may specialize in clinical applications (e.g., developmental disabilities, mental health and traumatic brain injury), educational applications (e.g., learning disabilities, and designing and evaluating instructional technology), health and fitness, and other areas. They typically spend more time in the problem environment than in their offices. Behavior plans are implemented in the settings where behavior problems occur, rather than the client attending sessions at an office.