Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA Therapy)
Applied Behavior Analysis is the design, implementation, and evaluation of environmental modifications to
produce socially significant improvement in human behavior. ABA includes the use of direct observation,
measurement, and functional analysis of the relations between environment and behavior. ABA uses
antecedent stimuli and consequences, based on the findings of descriptive and functional analysis, to
produce practical change. ABA is based on the belief that an individuals behavior is determined by past
and current environmental events in conjunction with organic variables such as genetics. Thus, it focuses on
explaining behavior in terms of external events that can be manipulated rather than internal constructs that
are beyond our control. Behavior Analyst Certification Board
Applied Behavior Analysis is the design, implementation, and evaluation of environmental modifications to
produce socially significant improvement in human behavior. ABA includes the use of direct observation,
measurement, and functional analysis of the relations between environment and behavior. ABA uses
antecedent stimuli and consequences, based on the findings of descriptive and functional analysis, to
produce practical change. ABA is based on the belief that an individuals behavior is determined by past
and current environmental events in conjunction with organic variables such as genetics. Thus, it focuses on
explaining behavior in terms of external events that can be manipulated rather than internal constructs that
are beyond our control. Behavior Analyst Certification Board
