What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a research-based therapy that uses reinforcement strategies to teach independence, communication, learning, and social skills to people with autism and other developmental disabilities. Within ABA, there is a core belief that through understanding the function(s) and catalyst(s) of behaviors (both positive and negative), a proper intervention plan can be developed and implemented that both increases skills and decreases harmful or dangerous behaviors.
Many studies show that ABA is effective in reducing harmful or dangerous behaviors and teaching new skills when implemented properly, with intensive (more than 20hrs per week) early intervention often associated with a reduced need for special services later in life.
Many studies show that ABA is effective in reducing harmful or dangerous behaviors and teaching new skills when implemented properly, with intensive (more than 20hrs per week) early intervention often associated with a reduced need for special services later in life.
Types of ABA Therapy
Discrete trial training (DTT)
DTT uses a series of trials to teach each step of a desired behavior or response. Lessons are broken down into their simplest parts so that they can be repeated until mastery is achieved. Positive rewards (praise, snacks, tokens, etc.) are used to reinforce correct answers and behaviors. Skills are then generalized to ensure that individuals can apply them across multiple environments.
Common targets for DTT include but are not limited to: washing your hands, getting dressed, asking for help, brushing your teeth, etc.
Common targets for DTT include but are not limited to: washing your hands, getting dressed, asking for help, brushing your teeth, etc.
early start denver model (ESDM)
ESDM is typically seen in practices for children under 3 years. It uses play to promote the development of language, social, and cognitive skills. These types of therapies view parent involvement as a key component to success.
early intensive behavioral intervention (EIBI)
EIBI focuses on the development of coping strategies and replacements for harmful or dangerous behaviors with 20-40 hours of individualized instruction per week for children four years old or younger.
pivotal response treatment (prt)
PRT focuses on adaptation and response skills for pivotal moments in one's environment. This treatment method aims to increase motivation, response to cues, self-management, and ability to initiate communication through play-based techniques initiated by the child.
verbal behavior intervention (VBI)
The primary focus of VBI is the development of verbal skills by connecting words with their purpose or function. Rather than viewing words as a label only, VBI teaches individuals with autism why and how words are used in making requests and communicating ideas.
Core Concepts of VBI:
Mand: A request, such as using "Drink" to ask for something to drink.
Tact: A comment used to share an experience or draw attention, such as using "cat" to point out a cat walking by.
Intraverbal: A word used in response to a question, such as "Blue" in response to, "What is your favorite color?"
Echoic: A repeated or echoed word, important in developing imitation skills to help with learning, such as, "Snack?" "Snack!"
Core Concepts of VBI:
Mand: A request, such as using "Drink" to ask for something to drink.
Tact: A comment used to share an experience or draw attention, such as using "cat" to point out a cat walking by.
Intraverbal: A word used in response to a question, such as "Blue" in response to, "What is your favorite color?"
Echoic: A repeated or echoed word, important in developing imitation skills to help with learning, such as, "Snack?" "Snack!"
