Applied Behavioral Analysis Overview

The medical and psychological community has always been interested in human behavior and how to best target and treat those behaviors that are commonly viewed as unnatural, improper or intrusive. A wide range of disorders often cause neurological and social impairments within individuals such as those seen in autistic or spectrum disorders. The answers to these disorders and the treatment therein of often comes down to specialized therapies and analysis, one of the most popular being Applied Behavioral Analysis.

The theory of this analysis is that if particular principals, operations and responsive learning can be applied and mastered, those with disorders are better able to acclimate to their surroundings and lead more productive lives in general. The techniques are often multi-faceted and take place not only in the home but outside in educational and environmental settings as well so that the treatments are all inclusive and children and adults will a myriad of disabilities can benefit from them.

Goals of ABA Therapy

Within the medical community the Applied Behavioral Analysis has specific goals and measures and at the heart of it is designing individual programs and treatments that will address behavioral shortcomings and challenges on an individual basis. By structuring programs in a specific way that will implement instructional and environmental modifications, those will disabilities are able to learn new skills and have a vault of tools with which they can rely on to assist in difficult and challenging situations.

While learning new skills and coping mechanisms, individuals can also be privy to positive reinforcements and learn how to redirect their anxiety and problematic behaviors. The Applied Behavioral Analysis always begins with research and keen observation as well as education to the individuals and their families so that the skills lacking can be acquired.

Once the observation and research phase is completed, a team of professionals will assess the needs of the individual and then a comprehensive intervention and treatment plan is devised using a combination of behavioral therapies, skills and procedures so that each area where skills and talents are lacking is addressed and worked upon.