Although it has been around since the 1950s, the term Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is still a foreign concept to a lot of people. Other than the fact that it is often associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder, this scientific discipline is also applied to many different situations. Because in many ways, this applied science is used to lessen wrong behavior and encourage correct behavior.
Learn more as we are going to talk more about this type of therapy in today’s guide.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Defined
Basically, ABA is a therapy that is used to understand different behavior and in the same way, it is also used to inspire a positive change in behavior. To be specific, ABA is not only applied to change bad behavior, but it aims to change the environment to encourage a behavioral change.
While most of us think the word “behavior” pertains to bad behavior only, but it isn’t always the case because, in reference to Applied Behavior Analysis, behavior is the way we act and the things we do as a person.
ABA helps to improve a person’s behavior by working on reading, social, academic, and communication skills. Also, it also aims to enhance learned skills such as hygiene, grooming, dexterity, fine motor, and even job proficiency skills even to the simplest things like teaching a child how to keep his room clean.
How Does It Work?
Most traditional therapies tend to assess how and why an individual behaves in a particular way. But in the case of ABA, it focuses more on replacing a type of behavior with another behavior through positive reinforcement. A good example of this is when a child dislikes cleaning his own room but hates washing the dishes. As a parent, you can give the option to not wash the dishes if he cleans up his room. And when the child accomplished the assigned task, you will then commend him for it.
Another way of applying ABA is by asking a person to do a certain task repeatedly until he will voluntarily do it on his own. And then the person will get praise every time he complies
When Is It Used?
ABA is often associated as a therapy for patients with autism, but at the same time, it can also be applied to children and adults who need behavioral modification to suit various conditions and situations.
Experts recommend that ABA should be applied at least 20 hours/week. Likewise, children who need ABA therapy should start before the age of 4 years.
As for adults, ABA is also used for seniors who have lost some abilities as a result of aging, memory loss, and etc. It doesn’t help to bring back their abilities, but rather to help elder adults to cope up with the loss.
Moreover, ABA is also administered to couples who are having issues with their relationship and employees who are having difficulties at work.
Final Word
Today, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is not only limited to autistic patients but it is also used for anyone who needs changes with their behavioral pattern. And that is why, ABA is now used in homes, schools, and community centers.
If you’re looking for an ABA therapy center in Alpharetta, GA, you can check out Elevation Autism’s website for more information.