My child received an Autism diagnosis and ABA was recommended. I don’t know the first thing about ABA!
You’re in luck! I happen to know about ABA, I even work in the field. It’s one of my favorite subjects to talk about!
The term ABA actually is a field called Applied Behavior Analysis. This is a science that has been used with a wide age-range of individuals.
So What is ABA?
ABA is a science-based practice that uses the four principles of behavior used to modify targeted behaviors.
The use of ABA is done to overall improve the lives of individuals participating in the treatment. There are different ways that ABA can help to make meaningful change in people’s lives.
Not only does ABA address what we consider “challenging” behaviors, but it also works to assist individuals with making progress in different skill sets.
Some of these skill sets include: communication, social interactions, daily-living abilities, and additional skills that are the foundations to build upon.
Learning more about ABA, and how to implement practices in the home can be beneficial for your child and family. Subscribe here to be in the know and be one of the first to be notified of new post!
ABA Science
The research of ABA is used to understand how behavior works. This knowledge is actually used to address behaviors being looked at to reduce or increase.
There are different variables that are taken into account when looking at why behaviors are occurring. Some of these variables are the environment, motivators, and even the individual’s learning history.
The treatment of ABA is used to make meaningful changes in people’s lives. This includes teaching new skills to access additional activities, locations, or items.
Teaching new skills can improve a person’s quality of life as they achieve additional milestones and skill sets.
Who’s the ABA Team?
There are different people that make up an individual’s ABA team. One of those members is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). This person conducts the assessments, writes and revises treatment plans, and monitors for progress.
There can also be a Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA). They can do similar tasks as a BCBA, but do require supervision from a BCBA.
Along with these team members, there is also either a Behavior Technician (BT) or Registered Behavior Technician (RBT). They work directly with the person receiving treatment. These people will spend the most time with the individual.
You may hear different companies refer to some of these team member descriptions differently, but they each have a part in the overall treatment plan. Some companies have different titles and requirements.
For example, one company may require the technicians to become registered with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) and become a RBT. Other companies may not have that requirement. However, both will complete the same tasks.
The bottom line is that everyone is excited to be a part of the individual’s team! I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve shed some tears as I watch progress being made.
Let’s talk about behaviors!
The field of ABA is growing and adapting to new research and criticism. As clinicians, we get closer and closer everyday to an ideal practice and care.
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