Applied Behavior Analysis, otherwise known as ABA, is a form of therapy based on the science of behavior. This therapy is a science that attempts to understand and change behavior. ABA is one of several autism interventions and treatments covered by most medical plans in Georgia and Illinois. It is also the only intervention that the U.S. Surgeon General endorses.

C.A.B.S. utilizes teaching strategies beyond discrete trial activities and flash cards at the table.  With an emphasis on remediating the core deficits of autism, our goals address increasing social skills, communication, socially appropriate behaviors, and functional life skills.

How does ABA therapy work?

As ABA works to understand and change behavior, several techniques can be used. This treatment is adaptable; therefore, it can be altered to fit the needs of each individual, can be provided within many different environments, and can involve one-on-one teaching or be used within a group.

ABA therapy works for teaching and building everyday life skills. The treatment brings a positive and purposeful change in a child with autism's behavior. This methodology takes the information gained from observation of the environment and builds teaching around it. By breaking down skills, ABA uses reinforcement to encourage particular behaviors and discourage other behaviors.

Positive reinforcement is a crucial strategy when using ABA. Rewarding a certain desired behavior motivates the child to continue that behavior, increasing desired behaviors while changing undesired behaviors.

ABA utilizes the identification of the antecedent and the consequence. The antecedent is what occurs before a certain behavior. This can be verbal or physical. The antecedent could be a request or command, a sound coming from the child, or an external factor, such as another person. 

Behavior is the response to the antecedent, an action or verbal response. The consequence is what occurs immediately after a certain behavior. The consequence can be based on positive reinforcement for the desired behavior or providing no reaction to undesired behavior.

What are some examples of ABA therapy?

There is a wide range of ABA therapy examples and techniques.

1. Natural Environment Teaching (NET): NET is a technique that focuses on teaching in the child’s natural environment. ABA practitioners incorporate teaching in activities that are familiar. It is a way to help form skills that can be generalized, which are skills learned in one setting that can be applied in other, less familiar settings. This technique can be done in a natural setting or a contrived “near natural” environment.

2. Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI): EIBI builds on the principles of ABA as it breaks down the task into smaller steps to make it easier for the child to learn. When the child succeeds at each step, the behavior is positively reinforced. This density of treatment at an early age, usually consisting of 30-40 hours per week, aids in the child's ability to focus more, improve the use and understanding of language, and develop life skills. EIBI is generally used with children before they reach school age in order to help close much of the learning gap with their peers.

3. Discrete Trial Training (DTT): DTT is a teaching strategy that falls under the ABA umbrella. This technique breaks down skills into discrete or smaller components to target skills that are considered “closed ended” skills, meaning skills that have a start and a finish such as matching one item to another. These skills are taught one by one, and the desired behavior is reinforced in some positive way.

4. Pivotal Response Training (PRT): PRT is a behavioral treatment based on play and initiated by the child. This technique aids in the development of communication skills, increases positive social behaviors, and relieves self-stimulatory behaviors that can be disruptive. It targets pivotal areas, such as motivation, initiation of social interactions, and self-management.  

5. Relational Frame Theory (RFT): RFT aims to understand the connections between language and behavior. It is based on the idea that relating one concept to another is the foundation of human language. In children with autism, the ability to naturally engage and relate one concept to another is interrupted. This technique reinforces the teaching of this ability.

6. Verbal Behavior (VB): VB teaches communication and language, mainly teaching why and how words are used to communicate.

7. Precision Teaching: This technique pinpoints skills and plans a method of teaching that explicitly meets the child's needs. Precision teaching focuses on teaching and building the fluency of skills, making it easier for certain behaviors to be effectively maintained. Rate of response and speed to response are often observed.

8. Task Analysis: A technique that breaks down skills or routines that occur in the same way each time it is done from more complex activities to individual component steps. These skills or routines can be anything from washing your hands and showering, to using the toaster. Task Analysis must be consistent, individualized, and systematically instructed.

9. Focused Program: This technique's goal is to address a certain number of targeted behaviors or skills at one time. It can be used for children reaching certain ages but still need help in one or two areas. It can help teach daily living skills, social skills, and academic lessons. These programs can be provided in a small group, sometimes ranging from 5-29 hours each week. These programs sometimes are a step-down from a more comprehensive ABA therapy program as it is typically less than 25-30 hours a week. 

10. Comprehensive ABA: This treatment targets multiple developmental concerns, including cognitive, social, communicative, and emotional behaviors at once. The focus is usually on behaviors that are maladaptive, such as tantrums. This treatment is generally conducted one-on-one, which is a gradual move to small groups. A common Comprehensive ABA treatment program would be between 25-30+ hours per week, but the intensity should be individualized.

Benefits of ABA therapy for treating autism?

Statistics have shown that ABA therapy has helped many children and families. ABA allows professionals to assess a child individually, determining the exact issues the child may be facing. This form of therapy aids in the development of early functional skills. Childhood is the most pivotal time in a child's development. ABA can help develop basic life skills early, making them easier to carry into adulthood. In addition, ABA as a teaching method can be applied to almost every skill. Movement skills, communication skills, and play skills can all be learned and improved through ABA therapy.

ABA can help teach a child with autism how to express their emotions healthily, which can change behavioral problems. ABA also promotes independence, teaching a child the skills to do things on their own. One of the major benefits is preparing a child for the real world.

Who provides ABA services, and where do I find them?

A board-certified behavior analyst® (BCBA®) can provide ABA therapy services. ABA programs also involved registered behavior technicians® (RBTs®) and therapists.

To find an ABA program, you can start by speaking with your pediatrician or another medical provider. You can discuss whether ABA will be a worthwhile treatment for your child. You will need to determine if your insurance covers the cost of ABA therapy and get a written prescription from a medical provider if the insurance company needs one. You can do your independent research to find programs or ask your child's teacher for any recommendations. Community & Disability Directories or Autism Directories, such as Autism Speaks, can also be used to search for an ABA program. At CABS we can help guide you and your child through the process, contact us to learn more.