Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is the science of applying experimentally derived principles of behavior to improve socially significant behavior. ABA takes what we know about behavior and uses it to bring about positive change (Applied). Behaviors are defined in observable and measurable terms in order to assess change over time and define progress (Behavior). The behavior is analyzed within the environment to determine what factors are influencing the behavior (Analysis).
ABA is recommended and supported by the U.S. Surgeon General, the National Institute of Mental Health, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Research Council, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the American Academy of Neurology, NY State Dept of Health and many other national medical policy organizations and national professional medical associations.
Behavior Analysis can be called ‘learning’ theory- Understanding what does or does not lead to learning, maintaining and using skills. ABA is setting up the environment to enable children to learn. With the use of ABA, we attempt to teach the prerequisites to make it possible for a child to learn ‘naturally.’