Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses the ABC contingency model—focusing on antecedents, behaviors, and consequences—to analyze and understand behaviors. By collaboratively setting individualized goals with clients and their families, ABA can empower children to lead more confident and fulfilling lives!
What is ABA?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the scientific study of behavior that uses positive reinforcement to help clients learn. The goals of ABA include increasing adaptive behaviors, such as communication, independence, and social interactions, and decreasing interfering behaviors, such as aggression and eloping (wandering or running away).
All 50 US states mandate insurance coverage for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis and treatment, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, though the specific coverage details and restrictions vary by state.
ABCs in ABA
In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), you might hear the phrase ABC contingency or three-term
contingency. This concept is used to help understand the before, during and after of behaviors.
Understanding behaviors helps with the creation of goals in ABA which are determined with the
support of each client and their family. These goals can include things like learning how to
functionally communicate or asking for help, reducing instances of self-harm, and more.
Collaboratively working on individualized goals can have a life-changing impact on a child’s ability
to live confident, comfortable lives.
The ABC contingency model looks at three things: antecedents, behaviors, and consequences.
Antecedent
An antecedent refers to the things that happen before a behavior.
Behavior
The antecedent precedes a behavior. A behavior is an observable response to the antecedent.
Consequence
Finally, there is a consequence to all behaviors. Consequences are events that happen right after a behavior.
Let’s look at an example
For example: A child sees a toy (antecedent). They ask for the toy (behavior). The technician gives the child the toy (consequence).
Collecting ABC data allows to understand patterns in behavior and helps us create goals tailored to your unique child. When we recognize behavior patterns through this data collection, we are able to create programs to implement in sessions. These simple tools can have a life-changing impact on a child’s ability to live a confident, comfortable life—ACP’s ultimate goal.
At Autism Care Partners, our mission is to empowering families to reach their full potential through early diagnosis and exceptional, innovative, interdisciplinary care. The ABC contingency model is one of many supports that help us accomplish this mission each day.
The why behind our work
At Autism Care Partners we are on a mission to empower families to reach their full potential through early diagnosis and exceptional, innovative, interdisciplinary care. ACP was launched to unify like-minded, interdisciplinary professionals to increase access and advance the quality of care available to individuals with developmental disabilities. Operating as an interdisciplinary team allows us to address each client’s unique needs to ensure our clients and families feel safe, supported, and celebrated.
Autism Care Partners has centers across New England and New York
Find the nearest Autism Care Partners center by entering your zip code!
Build a brighter tomorrow
Let’s come together to create a brighter future for our little ones and make a life-changing impact for children and families at Autism Care Partners. At ACP, we offer a comprehensive range of services all in one place, including ABA Therapy, Diagnostic Evaluations, Speech Therapy, and Occupational Therapy.
*Please note that services vary by location.
