The focus of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is learning. Practitioners of the science (called Behavior Analysts, or BCBAs) use ABA to help children with autism and other disabilities acquire skills to improve their lives. More than 6 decades of research validate the efficacy of this science. To put it simply, ABA considers everything we do or say to be "behavior." This means that walking the dog, singing a song, or solving a math problem are all examples of behavior. A Behavior Analyst (BCBA) looks to the environment to find the explanation for behavior. It is through this lens that a Behavior Analyst helps an individual change behavior and learn skills.
Further, the science of ABA puts a great focus on data. In short, we specifically define the skill or behavior we aim to change, implement evidence-based procedures to change it, and monitor the data to measure progress. It is through this very fundamental scientific process that we can insure that what we are doing is having the impact that our clients and families are looking for. And, if it is not, we can change our approach.
Further, the science of ABA puts a great focus on data. In short, we specifically define the skill or behavior we aim to change, implement evidence-based procedures to change it, and monitor the data to measure progress. It is through this very fundamental scientific process that we can insure that what we are doing is having the impact that our clients and families are looking for. And, if it is not, we can change our approach.
A Behavior Analyst, or "BCBA," (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) is a Master's or Doctorate level scientist-practitioner with 750-1500 hours of supervised field experience. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB.com) is the credentialing organization for BCBAs worldwide.
The United States Surgeon General has endorsed intensive behavioral intervention for individuals with autism, stating, “Thirty years of research demonstrated the efficacy of applied behavioral methods in reducing inappropriate behavior and in increasing communication, learning, and appropriate social behavior.”
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2012)- "A notable treatment approach for people with ASD is called applied behavior analysis (ABA). ABA has become widely accepted among health care professionals..."
American Psychological Association (2012)- "The field of applied behavior analysis has grown substantially in the past decade, enabling more children with autism and their families to obtain needed services. This growth appears to be related to an increase in the number of children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder and to the recognition of the effectiveness of behavior analytic services."
If you want to know more about Behavior Analysis, visit www.BACB.com, or simply ask a Behavior Analyst. We are always happy to explain what we do and why it matters.