ABA Therapy Examples, Definition, & Techniques: Therapy for behavioural problems, motor skill impairments, and communication difficulties is known as applied behaviour analysis (ABA).
As a therapeutic method, ABA has received support from the peer-reviewed literature, which is why it is classified as an evidence-based practice by the American Psychological Association.
It is important for students interested in behaviour therapy to be familiar with the many applications and methods used in ABA treatment.
An advanced degree program, like an online Master of Science in Applied Behaviour Analysis, may provide them with this information.
Doing so may set them up for successful careers in health care, where they can help those in need by giving them the best care possible.
ABA Therapy Meaning
People on the autism spectrum, who learn and think differently, are often treated by behaviour therapists using applied behaviour analysis (ABA).
The nonprofit organisation Autism Speaks highlights the importance of positive reinforcement as a key tactic in Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA), which seeks to promote greater understanding and acceptance of individuals with autism.
An individual is more likely to repeat a behaviour if it is followed by something valuable, such as a reward, says the American Behavioural Analysis (ABA). This promotes the adoption of more desirable habits over time.
The overarching objective of any ABA program is to provide each individual with the tools they need to achieve both immediate and long-term success and independence.
What is ABA Therapy Used For?
Applied behaviour analysis (ABA) treatment aims to identify the root causes of a client’s behavioural issues and then implement targeted solutions to overcome them. Schools, hospitals, clinics, and even people’s homes may all benefit from ABA treatment.
The Antecedent-Behaviour-Consequence (ABC) method is used by ABA therapists to identify and enhance certain behaviours:
- Here we have the element that causes a certain action to be performed, like a request.
- This is the action that the stimulus causes.
- This is the effect of the action, like a reward for good behaviour.
As an example, parents may politely request that their children put their dishes down. Instead of resisting or misbehaving, the kids get a treat if they comply. Therapists may improve a crucial skill by modifying the environment, reaction, and reward system in a specific manner by deconstructing behaviours into this sequence.
ABA Therapy Examples
There is a wide toolbox at the disposal of ABA therapists for the purpose of maximising desirable behaviours and decreasing undesirable ones.
Different people, different therapeutic settings, and different behaviours will call for different approaches.
Notable examples of ABA treatment include modelling, reinforcement systems, discrete trial training (DTT), and the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS).
1. Discrete Trial Training
During DTT, participants use the ABC method in a supervised, one-on-one setting. When the client exhibits the desired behaviour, the therapist will provide a cue, make the request, and then give positive reinforcement. Once the required behaviour is shown independently, the procedure is repeated. Therapists may use DTT to assist autistic persons in enhancing their social and behavioural abilities.
2. Modelling
To achieve the desired behaviour in applied behaviour analysis (ABA), one must model it. The therapist may demonstrate the desired behaviour in person, via video, or via voice. As an instance, the person may be told to greet new people with a handshake or to express gratitude when presented with an item. When it comes to helping kids improve their speech and social skills, this method really shines.
3. Picture Exchange Communication System
The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a picture-based approach to teaching youngsters language and literacy. In this method, the therapist takes a photo of the item the kid wants and then offers it to them. They still express themselves using this approach, even when they learn new words, phrases, and adjectives.
4. System for Reinforcement
Reinforcement systems are used by ABA therapists to educate people on the repercussions of certain behaviours. People may be asked to try again or have reward withheld until they exhibit the desired behaviour if they fail to do so. They may be praised or given a reward as positive reinforcement if they successfully execute the behaviour. Toys, refreshments, and special access might be up for grabs for kids in the form of tokens.
ABA Therapist Skills
Prospective ABA therapists need to hone a number of important abilities if they want to make it in the field. Competencies like empathy, critical thinking, and effective communication are a few examples.
Proficiency in verbal and written expression. ABA therapists need to be adept at reading both spoken and nonverbal signs, including body language. They should also have excellent communication skills and be able to work well with others.
Ability to think critically. When it comes to developing treatment plans, ABA therapists benefit greatly from the ability to think critically.
For instance, in ABA treatment, each session is tailored to the specific learner’s interests, abilities, and requirements. Each client’s demands are carefully considered while developing an ABA program; the approach is not generic.
Empathy. Aspiring ABA therapists should prioritise developing the ability of empathy. The key to effective ABA treatment is making the patient feel heard and understood.
Graduates of Regis College’s online master’s degree program in behaviour analysis are well-versed in the aforementioned methods and examples of applied behaviour analysis (ABA) treatment.
Students aiming to become therapists or other health care professionals may build a solid foundation for their professions via a mix of classroom instruction and clinical rotations.
Students preparing for careers as applied behaviour analysts should take courses like Behaviour Assessment and Treatment Evaluation to hone the analytical, listening, and interpersonal abilities necessary for the job.
Clinical director, early childhood instructor, or university professor are just a few of the careers they might choose after acquiring these abilities.
Begin Your Career in ABA Therapy
Students may acquire the skills and information necessary to provide effective behavioural therapy services via Regis College’s online Master of Science in Applied Behaviour Analysis program.
Students from a wide variety of health services backgrounds may find the right courses in behaviour, treatment, and ethical procedures to help them grow in their careers via this program.
All set to embark on an ABA career? Find out more about the Applied Behaviour Analysis Certificate and Master of Science programs at Regis University.
FAQs
What is an example of applied behavioral analysis?
An example of applied behavior analysis (ABA) is Discrete Trial Training (DTT). In DTT, a therapist breaks down skills into small, teachable steps and uses repeated trials to help the learner master specific behaviors or skills, such as making eye contact or following directions.
What is a real life example of ABA?
A real-life example of ABA is teaching a child with autism to request a snack using words or picture cards. At home, a parent or therapist encourages the child to ask for “apple” by saying the word or handing over a picture of an apple. When the child does this, they immediately receive the apple as positive reinforcement, increasing the likelihood they’ll use this communication method again.
What are the 7 rules of ABA?
The seven rules, or dimensions, of ABA are:
- Applied – Targets socially significant behaviors.
- Behavioral – Focuses on observable and measurable behaviors.
- Analytic – Demonstrates control over the behavior through data analysis.
- Technological – Procedures are clearly described and replicable.
- Conceptually Systematic – Procedures are based on behavioral principles.
- Effective – Brings about meaningful behavior change.
- Generality – Results last over time and transfer to different settings or behaviors.
What is an example of an ABA session?
A typical ABA session might focus on teaching turn-taking skills. The therapist sets up a game and prompts the child using clear instructions (“Your turn!”). When the child takes their turn appropriately, the therapist gives immediate praise or a small reward. The session is structured, data is recorded on the child’s responses, and skills are adjusted based on progress.