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What is ABA?

What is ABA Therapy?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a type of therapy frequently applied to children with autism and other developmental disorders. It focuses on imparting skills in specific domains of functioning, such as:

  • Social skills
  • Communication
  • Academic and learning skills
  • Motor dexterity
  • Hygiene and grooming

ABA is tailored to individual needs and can be delivered in various settings, including school, home, clinic, and other community settings. The primary goal of ABA therapy is to help children function as independently and successfully as possible.

Some of the key principles of ABA therapy:

Positive Reinforcement

    • ABA utilizes positive reinforcement to teach and promote behavior change.
    • It focuses on reinforcing desired behaviors to improve social interactions, communication abilities, learning, academic skills, and self-care habits.

Intensive and Individualized

    • ABA therapy is intensive, with sessions typically lasting two or more hours and conducted several days a week.
    • The therapy is attuned to each patient’s specific developmental needs.
    • A course of ABA therapy typically spans two or more years.

Scientifically Established Principles:

    • ABA consists of interventions derived from scientifically established principles of behavior.
    • It has evolved over time as understanding of autism has increased.