FAQs : Applied Behaviour Analysis?
What is Applied Behaviour Analysis?
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is a science used to understand behaviour (Cooper, Heron and Heward (2020). Applied behaviour analysts assess environmental influences on behaviour to design interventions and make data-based decisions to improve socially significant behaviours such as communication, social and play skills and self-help skills.
How does ABA work in practice?
It often involves:
- Breaking down complex skills into small, teachable steps
- Teaching those steps through repetition and practice
- Using positive reinforcement (praise, access to preferred activities, rewards) when a skill is used
- Adjusting and enriching the environment so that success is more likely
- Structured and “natural” learning opportunities.
What services does the BCBA-collective offer?
We provide direct training, supervision and support including assessment, intervention development and implementation to individuals, families, teachers and schools.
How do we collaborate with other professionals?
It is of great importance that we effectively collaborate with other professionals such as occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, teachers etc. so that treatment plans are aligned and consistent. We foster collaboration by communicating with other professionals, joint goal setting, using accessible language and respecting and learning about other disciplines.
How many hours of ABA does my child need?
The duration of ABA therapy will be dependent on the child’s needs, age, goals of the treatment plan and family lifestyle. Research recommends at least 10 hours of therapy a week, during initial consultation and assessment our BCBA’s will recommend the appropriate number of hours for your child.
Can I be my child’s therapist?
We understand that sometimes it is not possible to have therapists deliver therapy and we can support and train parents to provide therapy to their children.
My child has sleep and/or eating challenges, can you help with this?
Yes, we have extensive experience working with children who have sleep and eating challenges and we can assess and design interventions to address behavioural sleep and eating issues to improve your child’s quality of life and wellbeing.