Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding behavior and has been proven effective in supporting behavior change. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of ABA, its seven dimensions, and how they can be applied in a real-life scenario.
What is ABA?
At its core, ABA is an evidence-based practice that uses observation and data to understand how behavior works. It focuses on observable, measurable behaviors and aims to change or improve these behaviors.
How is ABA Used to Support Behavior Change?
ABA can be used to address a wide range of behaviors, from daily chores to more complex social behaviors. The approach is systematic and data-based, ensuring interventions are tailored to the individual's unique needs and environment.
Seven Dimensions of ABA
These dimensions help maintain the effectiveness, credibility, and accountability of ABA practices, ultimately leading to successful outcomes for individuals receiving ABA interventions.
ONE: Behavioral
ABA looks at observable and measurable behaviors and how they can be changed or improved.
TWO: Applied
The focus is on real-world behaviors that matter to the individual like communication and social skills.
THREE: Technological
Procedures are described clearly and concisely so that anyone can implement them accurately.
FOUR: Conceptually Systematic
Interventions are based on scientific principles and theories to ensure effectiveness.
FIVE: Analytical
Data collection and analysis are used to understand why behaviors occur.
SIX: Effective
The interventions are monitored to evaluate their impact on the target behavior.
SEVEN: Generality
Generalization of learned skills is promoted across different environments and people.
By adhering to these dimensions, practitioners provide high-quality, evidence-based interventions that lead to meaningful behavior change for those receiving behavior services.
Real-life Example
Let's say your child, Johnny, has a few daily age-appropriate chores but it’s usually a struggle for him to complete them. You might set up a chore chart to increase the behavior of Johnny completing his chores, so let’s see how this might play out using the seven dimensions of ABA.
Every morning, go over the chart with Johnny during breakfast. Remind him that he gets extra play time tonight if he completes his chore chart before dinner.
At the end of the day, check if Johnny completed his chores and give him a sticker if he did.
If he completes all of his chores by dinner, he gets a special reward, like an extra 10 minutes of playtime before bed.
If Johnny did not complete his chores, help him finish after dinner while discussing what happened that day. Be gentle, firm, and supportive. Help Johnny make a plan to do better the next day.
Take a photo of the chore chart each week to track Johnny’s behavior.
Does this plan align with the seven dimensions of ABA? Let’s find out!
ONE: Behavioral
ABA looks at observable and measurable behaviors and how they can be
changed or improved.
Johnny will complete all of his chores and check the items off his chore chart
by dinner each day.
TWO: Applied
The focus is on real-world behaviors that matter to the individual like
communication and social skills.
Checking his chores off of a chart sets him up for success while supporting
developmentally appropriate independence.
THREE: Technological
Procedures are described clearly and concisely so that anyone can implement them accurately.
The procedure is written down so anyone can follow it to support Johnny in
completing his chores.
FOUR: Conceptually Systematic
Interventions are based on scientific principles and theories to ensure
effectiveness.
Research supports holding kids accountable for completing age appropriate
chores.
FIVE: Analytical
Data collection and analysis are used to understand why behaviors occur.
Before implementing the chore chart, Johnny was able to complete all of his
chores 2 of 7 days, on weekends when he had plenty of time and help.
SIX: Effective
The interventions are monitored to evaluate their impact on the target
behavior.
After a month of using the chore chart consistently, Johnny completes all of his
chores 5 of 7 days. Weekdays are still tough but Johnny shows improvement!
SEVEN: Generality
Generalization of learned skills is promoted across different environments and
people.
Share the plan with all caretakers so that everyone can support and reinforce
Johnny’s behavior.
This plan DOES follow the seven dimensions of ABA to support lasting behavior change! With consistency and monitoring this intervention should continue to improve Johnny's behavior of completing his chore chart.
To Conclude
By understanding and applying the seven dimensions of ABA, you can effectively support behavior change in your child. Remember, ABA is a science-based approach, so decisions should be data-driven and tailored to the child's unique needs and environment.
Using these strategies, you can set clear, achievable goals and track progress. Consistency and patience are key, as behavior change takes time.
Join me on Thursday 4/18/24 to discuss further during this week's FREE webinar!
Happy practicing!
Katie Conrado MASE, BCBA
Owner/Clinical Director
Inclusive Behavior Consulting
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