Behavior analysis helps to understand how behavior works in individuals, how behavior is affected by the environment (and vice versa), and how learning takes place in individuals. Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA therapy, can help clients with language and communication skills; improve attention, focus, social skills, memory, and academics; and decrease problematic behaviors. This type of therapy is often used for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
ABA is a flexible form of therapy that can be changed to meet the individual needs of each client (ex. focusing more heavily on the skills that the client needs and/or wants to improve on). ABA treatment can be used to teach everyday life skills and can involve one-on-one instruction or group communication practice.
How does ABA work?
The main principle that ABA is based upon is positive reinforcement, in which a therapist identifies a goal behavior for the client, and every time the client successfully uses or practices the behavior, they get a reward.
ABA therapy is built on an "ABC" model:
Antecedent --- what occurs right before the target behavior
Behavior --- client's response, or lack thereof, to the antecedent
Consequence --- occurs right after the target behavior
An ABA therapist will utilize the principles of planning and ongoing assessment, which involves developing a detailed assessment of each person's skills and preferences for how they would like to work on different skills and behaviors. Additionally, parents and family members receive some training so that the skills and practices learned in therapy can continue throughout the day at home. The client will have many opportunities for skill practicing and learning in both planned and naturally occurring situations.
Here at Madrigal, we are committed to providing applied behavior analysis therapy to reach your best potential.
*This information was adapted from Autismspeaks.org. Click here to learn more information.*