Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis, or ABA, is the method of utilizing scientifically, data-based principles of behavior to improve socially acceptable behavior. The goal of ABA is to take what we know about behavior and use it to bring about positive change. This requires that behaviors are defined in an observable and measurable manner in order to assess change over time. The targeted behaviors are then analyzed within the environment to determine what factors are influencing the behavior. ABA interventions are not a new concept. The core principals of ABA can trace its roots back to the early 1900’s and become better defined in the 1960’s. Within the last 20 years, ABA-based interventions have gained recent popularity related to teaching students with autism spectrum disorder.

IDTC in association with its sister company, ODTC, has been utilizing ABA principals prior to the recent trend towards these techniques. It is important to note that ABA is not a therapeutic method as much as a pure science that broadly incorporates methods and techniques to reach positive outcomes. IDTC has always utilized these methods and techniques to ensure our children and young adults receive the maximum benefit of their individualized treatment. IDTC utilizes antecedent interventions, discrete trial instruction, incidental teaching, and natural environment training paired with functional analysis and task analysis. IDTC is one of the only providers, utilizing current technologies, to create a database capable of tracking each individuals behaviors with the ability to truly understand each behavior and the best method of improving behavior.