Defining Applied Behavior Analysis
Cooper, Heron, and Heward (2007) provide the following definition of applied behavior analysis:
Applied behavior analysis is the science in which the principles of the analysis of behavior are applied systematically to improve socially significant behavior and experimentation is used to identify the variables responsible for behavior change.
This definition contains six key components of ABA. These include:
The definition for ABA set forth by Autism Speaks - an organization leading the world in science and advocacy for autism - relays the same message but in simpler terms:
Behavior analysis focuses on the principles that explain how learning takes place. Positive reinforcement is one such principle. When a behavior is followed by some sort of reward, the behavior is more likely to be repeated...applied behavior analysis is the use of [these] techniques and principles to bring about meaningful and positive change in behavior.
While both definitions differ in syntax, the message about ABA is clear: it uses scientifically valid treatments to make significant changes in behavior. The definition by Autism Speaks begins to reveal the principles underlying ABA, and it is with these principles where we begin to understand the concepts that make ABA such an effective treatment.
Applied behavior analysis is the science in which the principles of the analysis of behavior are applied systematically to improve socially significant behavior and experimentation is used to identify the variables responsible for behavior change.
This definition contains six key components of ABA. These include:
- ABA is guided by the attitudes and methods of scientific inquiry
- All procedures are described and implemented in a systematic, technological manner
- Not all means of changing behavior qualify as ABA; only those derived from the basic principles of behavior
- Focus on socially significant behavior
- Meaningful improvement in important behavior
- Analyze the factors responsible for improvement
The definition for ABA set forth by Autism Speaks - an organization leading the world in science and advocacy for autism - relays the same message but in simpler terms:
Behavior analysis focuses on the principles that explain how learning takes place. Positive reinforcement is one such principle. When a behavior is followed by some sort of reward, the behavior is more likely to be repeated...applied behavior analysis is the use of [these] techniques and principles to bring about meaningful and positive change in behavior.
While both definitions differ in syntax, the message about ABA is clear: it uses scientifically valid treatments to make significant changes in behavior. The definition by Autism Speaks begins to reveal the principles underlying ABA, and it is with these principles where we begin to understand the concepts that make ABA such an effective treatment.