What is applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy?

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a form of therapy based on principles of behavioral psychology. It’s mainly used to help children with autism learn new skills and behaviors. 

Unlike outdated ABA approaches, modern ABA focuses on positive reinforcement. In other words, when a child shows a desired behavior, like eye contact, the ABA therapist provides a small reward. These exchanges are repeated and often integrated into play to help children learn the skills they need to be successful and reduce unsafe behaviors like self-harm. 

Understanding applied behavior analysis therapy

Research shows that positive reinforcement helps promote behavior change. So rather than using punishment to discourage undesired behaviors,  ABA therapists reward desired behaviors. By repeating this process, children become more likely to repeat helpful behaviors and reduce problematic behaviors. In the past, ABA therapy was a regimented, highly repetitive process. But today, ABA is more flexible, and ABA therapists look for opportunities to integrate skill building into a child’s everyday activities.

ABA can take many forms, and therapists can tailor it to fit each child’s needs. But most ABA interventions are based on something referred to as the ABCs of behavioral science. This stands for:

• Antecedent: This is a term for what happens immediately before a behavior occurs. It could be anything from a sensory experience to an environmental stimulus that produces a thought or feeling that prompts a behavior. 
• Behavior: In the context of ABA, this is the undesired, unhelpful, or unsafe behavior that the therapy will address. ABA therapists consider the underlying motivation of a behavior rather than framing it as right or wrong.
• Consequence: It’s important to note that this does not refer to a punishment. Rather, in ABA terms, the consequence is whatever happens immediately following the behavior. Consequences can be positive, negative, or neutral.

By increasing awareness of what happens right before a behavior (the antecedent), ABA therapists can identify moments when a child may need extra support. And by providing a reward as a “consequence” for a positive behavior, that behavior is reinforced and more likely to be repeated.  

For example, transitions can be challenging for many children. So if a child has trouble getting out of their parent’s car to enter school in the morning, their ABA therapist might design an intervention to address the behavior. This might involve positive reinforcement, like giving the child a sticker or small piece of candy when they get to their desk. Or, for younger children, a parent could accompany the child into school and stay with them for a few minutes until they get settled with the goal of reducing this support over time.

What conditions can applied behavior analysis therapy treat?

ABA is frequently used to support children living with autism spectrum disorder. But it can also be effective for children living with other conditions, like:

• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Panic disorder
• Traumatic brain injury 

And it can be helpful for adults living with:

• Eating disorders
• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
• Substance use disorders
• Dementia
• Anger management issues

The benefits of ABA therapy

ABA is an evidence-based therapy. This means that research shows that it’s an effective way to promote:

• Improved communication skills
• Enhanced social skills
• Increased independence
• Improved cognitive skills (like attention, focus, social skills, and memory)
• Decreased problem behaviors

One of the reasons ABA is so effective in improving these skills is because of its flexibility. An ABA therapist can adapt their interventions to meet the needs and interests of each person in a wide range of settings.  

Unlike many traditional therapies that take place in a therapist’s office, ABA therapy can happen in different environments. ABA therapists can provide support in a client’s home, school, community, or even remotely. This flexibility allows providers to support skill development in real-time during everyday activities.

What can you expect from applied behavior analysis therapy?

If you’ve never experienced ABA, you might be wondering how it works. Here’s what you can expect from the process. 

1. Initial assessment 

ABA starts with an initial assessment from a certified ABA therapist. The therapist will use this time to get to know your child’s medical, mental health, academic, social, and family histories. They’ll also ask questions to help them understand your child’s challenges and strengths. 

2. Therapist identifies target behaviors

From there, the therapist will identify the behaviors that ABA therapy will address, often with the input of teachers, parents, or other caregivers. Since ABA can target a wide range of concerns, interventions will be tailored to help your child learn relevant skills and avoid specific unwanted behaviors. 

For example, ABA can address things like self-care, hygiene, communication, academic skills, motor skills, and more. 

3. Therapist reviews progress and adjusts treatment as needed

Over the course of treatment, the therapist will regularly review your child’s treatment goals and progress and make adjustments as necessary. Throughout the experience, family members, school personnel, and other caring adults in your child’s life will be invited to take an active role in the process.

Find care with Rula

ABA is a science-backed therapy for people with autism and other mental health conditions. But it’s most commonly used to help autistic children learn new skills and avoid unhelpful behaviors. If your child needs behavioral support,  Rula can help you connect with an experienced ABA provider in just a few clicks. 

Our therapist-matching program makes it easy to find a therapist who takes your insurance so that you and your family can access the care you need from the comfort of home. And thanks to our extensive network of therapists, you don’t have to wait months for an appointment when your child needs care. With Rula, you can make your first appointment as soon as tomorrow. 

Find a therapist with Rula