The Applied Behavior Analysis Definition
At Verbal Behavior Associates, we focus on improving the lives of children with behavioral and language difficulties. Our focus is on developing useful and essential skills in order to help the child succeed. We do this through collaboration with both the family and teachers. Our strategy for approaching this goal is rooted in a method of therapy known as Applied Behavior Analysis.
ABA Therapy involves a multi-step process that begins with an initial assessment conducted by a BCBA case manager. This comprehensive assessment will allow the case manager to design a plan of instruction customized for each individual child’s needs. It will outline a variety of goals for the child and a Behavior Interventionist to work on. This process also includes training for the parents and family units so that they have the necessary skills to work with the child and help them on a daily basis.
So what exactly is the Applied Behavior Analysis Definition?
Well, simply put, it’s a method of therapy based on the science of learning and behavior.
To break down the definition of this therapy. The “analysis” refers to the scientific study of human “behavior.” In general, behavior analysis would simply refer to observing behavioral patterns in all people, groups of people, or individuals. In this instance, “applied” means using that knowledge in the specific context of your child, and then coming up with a plan to use that analysis information to help your child succeed.
How does ABA help my child?
ABA therapy takes the methodologies of behavioral science and applies them to real life situations in order to increase positive and helpful behaviors and decrease harmful behaviors or those that get in the way of learning. ABA focuses on explaining behaviors by analyzing the events that can be controlled externally, rather than focusing on internal constructs. In this instance, behavior refers to those things a child does or says, which covers everything from language to reading to social interactions. These aren’t just negative behaviors, but all kinds of behaviors. After all, it can be beneficial to analyze the events around positive behaviors in order to try and recreate them and increase positive behaviors in other instances.
Components of ABA Therapy
A key component of Applied Behavior Analysis is the A.B.C.’s. That stands for antecedent, behavior, and consequences. That is focusing on the target behavior and what comes before that behavior that may cause a poor response or no response AND also focusing on the consequences of such behavior. By changing what occurs before and/or after a behavior, a child can make significant improvements in changing the behaviors themselves.
While ABA therapy has been shown to be especially beneficial to those children with autism, it can help children with other developmental difficulties as well as many other struggles. This unique and focused therapy can be used to help almost any child reach their full potential. That means ABA can be an effective tool for children with and without disabilities.
ABA therapy is a comprehensive approach to helping children and will involve both the family unit and the school working with the behavior interventionist to consistently be focusing on the goals of the child.
For more information about how VBA can help your family, contact us today.
Hours of Operation
Monday: 8:30AM–5PM
Tuesday: 8:30AM–5PM
Wednesday: 8:30AM–5PM
Thursday: 8:30AM–5PM
Friday: 8:30AM–5PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed
