Improving lives through lasting changes

What is Applied Behaviour Analysis?

What is ABA?

Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a research-based science focused on understanding behaviour and how it is affected by the environment. In practice, ABA uses proven behavioural principles to help individuals increase meaningful skills and reduce challenging behaviours to improve daily functioning and quality of life.

ABA therapy board illustration

How ABA Works?

ABA involves a structured yet flexible process to create lasting behaviour change:

Functional Assessment

Functional Assessment

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Functional Assessment

Behaviour analysts begin by observing the person to identify triggers (antecedents) and consequences that maintain behaviours.

Personalised Treatment Planning

Personalised Treatment Planning

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Personalised Treatment Planning

Based on assessment data, a customised plan is developed with clear goals that support skill building and behaviour change.

Implementation of Techniques

Implementation of Techniques

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Implementation of Techniques

Common ABA teaching methods include:

  • Positive reinforcement
  • Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
  • Natural Environment Teaching (NET)
  • Prompt fading and skill chaining
  • Augmentative communication strategies
Data-Driven Progress Monitoring

Data-Driven Progress Monitoring

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Data-Driven Progress Monitoring

ABA relies on ongoing measurement of behaviour so that interventions can be adjusted based on what's working — not guesswork.

Benefits of ABA

ABA has decades of research showing its effectiveness in promoting positive change.

People who engage in ABA can experience:

Customised learning plans

Improved social skills and communication

Better independence in daily life

Strengthened coping strategies

Involvement of families and caregivers in progress

What is Positive Behavior Supports?

Positive Behavior Support (PBS) is an individualised, research-based process that incorporates the principles of applied behaviour analysis and person and family-centred practices.

Therapist and child playing with building blocks

PBS Components

Learn why this approach is so successful.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About ABA & Positive Behavior Support