Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) is the leading methodology for treating children with autism spectrum disorder. It’s backed by 40 years of proven results. Find out how we can help.
Call us on 1300 752 617
What is Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)?
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is the application of the principles of learning, derived from psychology research, to improve socially important behaviours. ABA is an umbrella term for a collection of procedures and interventions designed to increase positive behaviours, teach new skills, generalise behaviours to new environments or situations, and reduce behaviours that are harmful or interfere with learning.
One hallmark of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is data collection and analysis to guide clinical decision-making. The effectiveness of Applied Behaviour Analysis programs has been well documented through 40 years of research. Children who participate in autism programs based on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) have been shown to make substantial and sustained gains in IQ, language, academic performance, and adaptive behaviour, better than those of children who have had no treatment, low intensity treatment, or non-ABA treatment.
Applied Behaviour Analysis Programs
Early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI), is an evidence-based, comprehensive intervention for autism spectrum disorder based on the principles of Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA).
Click below for a more detailed description of Early Intervention:
Does ABA really work?
In Australia, reputable experts have endorsed ABA-based interventions and autism programs. In 2011, Prior, Roberts, Rodger, and Williams published their report titled A Review of Research to Identify the Most Effective Models of Practice in Early Intervention for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.
This report was prepared funded by and prepared for the Australian Government of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous affairs (FaCHSIA). Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) was the only intervention to be classified as eligible for funding based on established research evidence:
Helping Children with Autism (HCWA) package endorsed ABA as the only example of intervention programs for kids with autism that is eligible for funding based in established research evidence.
In addition, the Raising Children Network gives ABA a firm rating of established, noting that research consistently shows positive effects.
Other organisations that endorse Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) as a safe and effective treatment for autism include:
- American Academy of Neurology
- American Academy of Family Pediatrics
- American Academy of Pediatrics
- American Academy of Occupational Therapy Association
- American Psychological Association
- American Speech-Language Hearing Association
- Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
- Autism Society of America
- National Institute of Child Health & Human Development
- National Institute of Mental Health
The findings of the current review support the findings of previous reviews. Behaviourally based interventions, and specifically those that are intensive (often referred to as applied behavioural analysis (ABA) or early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI)), continue to indicate positive outcomes for some children in a range of areas including cognitive skills, communication, and adaptive behaviour.
ABA & The role of speech/occupational therapy
Speech therapy and occupational therapy (OT) are accompaniments to Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy, and may be included in early intensive behavioural intervention programs. Speech therapists address the mechanics of speech, including oral motor and articulation problems.
Occupational therapists address gross and fine motor development and skills related to self-help and personal independence (e.g., dressing, eating, hygiene, and toileting). One problem with speech and occupational therapy are the methods used (some of which lack evidence) and the intensity of the intervention, which often falls short of best practice recommendations (20+ hours per week). All of these skills are included and addressed as part of a comprehensive ABA program.
Running ABA Programs
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is public and accountable. Within an ABA program, data are recorded on the child’s level of independence across all skills targeted for increase. Data are reviewed weekly by the senior behaviour therapist and fortnightly by the program supervisor. The data allow the treatment team to decide when a skill has been mastered, or to problem solve if a child is having difficulty learning a skill. ABA programs are highly individualised and dynamic - programs are reviewed on an ongoing basis with parents to ensure continued progress.