WHAT IS ABA?
ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. Applied Behavior Analysis is the scientific study of, and systematic approach for influencing, socially significant behavior through the identification of reliably related environmental variables.
ABA is individual to each client and uses data to drive effective decision making about progress. ABA includes the use of direct observation, measurement, and functional analysis of the relations between these environmental variables and corresponding behaviors, usually identified through a variety of specialized assessment methods.
Practitioners of behavior analysis provide services consistent with the dimensions of ABA. Common services may include, but are not limited to, conducting behavioral assessments, analyzing data, writing and revising behavior-analytic treatment plans, training others to implement components of treatment, and providing oversight of the implementation. (www.bacb.com; Applied Behavior Analysis Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Practice Guidelines for Healthcare Funders and Managers, second edition)
Although ABA has been and continues to be a widely accepted, effective and evidence-based treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the application of principles of ABA also demonstrate measurable success in treating a variety of other skill deficits or conditions. These may include language and communication, social skills, behavior management, skill acquisition, organization and time management, individual performance tracking, restricted patterns of behavior, and limited interests. “Findings from several studies show that an eclectic model, where ABA is combined with non-evidence-based treatment, is less effective than ABA alone. Therefore, treatment plans that combine ABA with additional procedures that lack scientific evidence as established by peer-reviewed publications should be considered eclectic and do not constitute ABA treatment.” (www.bacb.com; Applied Behavior Analysis Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder: Practice Guidelines for Healthcare Funders and Managers, second edition)
Within the field of ABA, standards of practice, qualifications for certification, and a professional and ethical code of conduct have been established by a governing body called the Behavior Analyst Certification Board®, Inc. (BACB®). “The BACB® is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) corporation established in 1998 to meet professional credentialing needs identified by behavior analysts, governments, and consumers of behavior analysis services.” (www.bacb.com)
At C.A.P.E.S., we proudly adhere to these standards of practice and ethical codes.