Frequently Asked Questions
What are ABA services?
A: Contrary to popular belief, ABA services include far more than discrete trial teaching. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the process of systematically applying interventions based upon the principles of learning theory to improve socially significant behaviors to a meaningful degree, and demonstrate that the interventions employed are responsible for the improvement in behavior (Baer, Wolf & Risley, 1968; Sulzer-Azraoff & Mayer, 1991). Many services are available under the term ABA including but not limited to:
•Functional Behavior Assessments
•Behavior Intervention Plan
Development and Training
•Positive Behavior Supports
•Discrete Trial Instruction
•Natural Environment Teaching
•Verbal Behavior Programming
•Social Skills Instruction
•Development of Educational
Programs and Task Analyses
What is the difference between consultation and direct services?
A: The consultative approach typically involves a collaborative approach in which the consultant is brought in to collect data, identify problem behaviors and maintaining functions, develop intervention strategies, and train professionals and parents in the implementation of those interventions. The consultant can then be utilized on an as-needed basis to monitor the effectiveness of the plan and assist with fading procedures. Simply put, the consultant develops possible solutions and teaches others how to correctly follow through with the strategies. This model is best for long-term success, as those who interact with the client most frequently are responsible for teaching and reinforcing adaptive behavior. Conversely, with the direct care model, a professional with experience in ABA works directly with clients to implement strategies developed by a Behavior Analyst. This model is excellent for situations in which a client requires intensive teaching to acquire new skills or when a behavior is intense or otherwise requires extended opportunity for modeling the correct implementation of recommended strategies.
What is a Functional Behavior Assessment?
A: A Functional Behavioral Assessment involves direct observations of the child, interviews with parents, teachers and other key members of the team, and a review of the child’s records. An FBA is conducted to identify the function or the reason a child is behaving a particular way. The FBA further seeks to identify the relationship between the ecological context and the behavior, and culminates in the design of a behavior intervention plan.