Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied Behavior Analysis is the design, implementation, and evaluation of environmental modifications to produce socially significant improvement in human behavior. ABA includes the use of direct observation, measurement, and functional analysis of the relations between environment and behavior. ABA uses antecedent stimuli and consequences, based on the findings of descriptive and functional analysis, to produce practical change. ABA is based on the belief that an individuals behavior is determined by past and current environmental events in conjunction with organic variables such as genetics. Thus, it focuses on explaining behavior in terms of external events that can be manipulated rather than internal constructs that are beyond our control.

Applied Behavior Analysis can do amazing things and the more you learn the better you can help others. On this site you will find samples, resources, free materials, explanations and discussions pertaining to ABA and application with individuals with Autism.

Scientific support for Applied Behavior Analysis: This website offers a wealth of resources pertaining to evidence supporting the science of Applied Behavior Analysis.

At Behavior Science.org the mission is to disseminate and advance the science of behavior by creating and providing access to comprehensive basic, applied, and theoretical resources for behavior analytic scientist practitioners. Their mission is achieved by utilizing technological advances to: - Develop new initiatives that contribute to the dissemination of behavior science world-wide and; - Create a behavior analytic network that facilitates the dissemination of already existing resources.

This site offers information on Applied Behavior Analysis as it pertains to the treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This site includes a fact sheet as well as access to 188 research studies demonstrating the effectiveness of ABA as a treatment for individuals with ASD.

ABA Florida Tech: Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is the design, implementation and evaluation of environmental modifications to produce socially significant improvements in behavior. Does ABA get results? ABA focuses on outcome rather than process. Behavior analysts continuously measure behavior to determine if progress is being made. Applied behavior analysis is data based and has the best scientifically demonstrated track record for teaching skills and replacing problem behavior with appropriate social skills. The positive outcomes are outstanding. Experience indicates that intensive programs with ABA at their core are the most promising for teaching and maintaining skills.

Dr. McGee answers the question: 'What Is ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)? The term ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. It's an approach that was derived from learning theory. In ABA, a socially significant behavior is targeted, such as a child learning to make request. And then an environmental alteration is introduced, such as teaching instructions and a reward for a correct response. And then the change in the targeted behavior is objectively measured.

Behavior analysis is the scientific study of behavior. Behavior analysts ask Why does behavior change over time? They seek answers by looking at the biological and environmental factors, although they are primarily interested in the role of environment in behavior change. Many behavior analysts do either basic or applied research. Others specialize in applying behavior change principles to enhancing quality of life. To read further information about behavior analysis, click on the link provided here.

Current Directions in Behavioral Science is a podcast dedicated to understanding behavior from a natural science perspective. It is independently produced and hosted by Dr. Matthew Normand. Each episode features interviews with noted scholars whose work is focused on some aspect of behavioral science or intersects the field in some way. This podcast would likely be of interest to psychologists, neuroscientists, biologists, ethologists, social scientists, educators, and anyone with an interest in human and non-human behavior or science in general.

Can Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Improve Adolescent and Adult Autism?

This site offers discussion and resources for Adult Life Planning, from Living Independently, Living with a Housemate(s), Living with Parents and Family, Living with Partner and/or Children, as well as Public and Private Housing Options.

Autism Speaks Family Services is pleased to highlight individuals with autism who are working as well as testimonials from their employers. This page should serve as a source of inspiration and resources for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, as well as for prospective employers.

Acknowledging that the incidence of autism has risen dramatically in the past two decades, the Autism Higher Education Foundation recognizes that the current lack of lifelong learning opportunities in higher education, music and the arts for individuals with autism is a civil rights issue which demands immediate action.

"This article describes a behavioral intervention program for adults with autism, suggests that preparation for adulthood should begin in early childhood, asserts that the curriculum should be just as comprehensive and evaluation criteria just as rigorous in programs for adults as in programs for children, and proposes that close examination of adults

Adults with autism can live, work, learn and play in their communities when given the proper supports. Easter Seals works with adults with autism across the lifespan, encouraging them to find meaningful employment and live independent lives after leaving the school system."

Abstract: "When our children are in school, we fight for particular therapies or goals on their IEPs. We spend every dime we have on anything that we think will help. We are highly invested in making sure they have all of the research-based interventions that are touted to make a significant, positive change in their lives. This is a good thing. However, in my experience, the lives of middle-aged and senior adults with severe autism undergo big changes after the school and young adult years. My colleagues and I founded our agency, the Training Education and Research Institute (TERI), 30 years ago, which has given us direct experience with aging adults with autism. In my work, I also conduct research on transition, adulthood and family needs related to adults with severe autism and other developmental disabilities. Additionally, my 26 year-old son has profound and multiple disabilities, and so I have also observed, first hand, how life changes after public school services". Krysti DeZonia, Ph.D.

As the main plenary session at climate talks here was getting under way on Tuesday, I received word that Lonnie Thompson, a longtime student of ice and climate at Ohio State University, has a paper coming out in a behavior journal, The Behavior Analyst, concluding with unusual bluntness that humanity is in deep trouble.

Liz Lemon: Nice to have some positive reinforcement, isn't it? Jack Donaghy: Well, it's only positive reinforcement when they say it to you.

do they say negative reinforcement? when they mean positive punishment?? Watch closely.

Burrhus Frederic Skinner (March 20, 1904 ??? August 18, 1990) is mentioned in the Swan Orientation Film. He was an American psychologist and author. He conducted pioneering work on experimental psychology and advocated behaviorism, which seeks to understand behavior as a function of environmental histories of reinforcement. He also wrote a number of controversial works in which he proposed the widespread use of psychological behavior modification techniques (primarily operant conditioning) in order to improve society and increase human happiness.

Dog training is a divided profession. We are not like plumbers, orthodontists or termite exterminators who, if you put six in a room, will pretty much agree on how to do their jobs. Dog training camps are more like Republicans and Democrats, all agreeing that the job needs to be done but wildly differing on how to do it. The big watershed in dog training is whether or not to include pain and fear as means of motivation. In the last twenty years the pendulum swing has been toward methods that use minimal pain, fear or intimidation - or none at all. The force-free movement has been partly driven by improved communication from the top. Applied behaviorists, those with advanced degrees in behavior, and veterinary behaviorists, veterinarians who have completed residencies specializing in behavior problems are in greater abundance than in previous decades, and there is much more collaboration between these fields and trainers on the front lines. These two professions are quite unified on the point that the use of physical confrontation and pain is unnecessary, often detrimental and, importantly, unsafe.

At the beginning of Ghostbusters, Peter Venkman says that he studies the effects of negative reinforcement on ESP ability, when, in fact, he actually studies the effects of positive punishment on ESP ability. This can be seen in the fact that he adds an aversive stimulus to the subject when the subject "gets it wrong" in order to decrease that behavior, which is positive punishment. If he was studying negative reinforcement, he would have to make the shock occur at all times unless the subject guessed the right card, at which point, the shock would be removed. Of course, Peter's methods were shown to be less than sound. [The "negative reinforcement" occurs with the female subject. She sees that the punishment for getting a wrong answer is electric shock. When she gets the right answer (or so Venkman tells her) she escapes that aversive stimulus. *That* is negative reinforcement. The experiment is bunk anyway, because Venkman is lying to them both.]

What is the most effective way to get hospital staff on board with a new process? This question prompted the authors of this article to conduct phone interviews with individuals at 5 hospitals in Washington State that had adopted, or tried to adopt, the WHO surgical safety checklist. The experience at three of those hospitals is described in detail. One hospital had a highly effective implementation, using a team approach; the other two had moderately effective implementation experiences, using ???empowering leader??? or ???laissez faire leader??? approaches.

Marshall had been going there for five years, and throughout that time, Barney has been training him to associate the restaurant with Barney's sneezes, by sneezing every time Marshall mentions Shinjitsu. The connection became strong to the point that Marshall wanted to go to Shinjtsu every time Barney sneezed, this leading to that he apparently went there six times when Barney had a cold for a week the year before Ducky Tie

How accurate are the shows Criminal Minds and Lie to Me, that are based upon human behavior and body language?

The Applied Animal Behavior SIG brings together individuals who specialize in or have an interest in the application of behavior analysis to the appreciation, understanding, and management of animal behavior across species in applied settings. The AAB SIG has three primary purposes: 1) To promote behavior analytic research and the exchange of scientific information in the area of animal behavior and behavior therapy with animals in applied settings; 2) To advocate for and promote high standards in the application of methods and techniques of behavior change with animals in applied settings; and 3) To support and promote excellence in the education and research practices of individuals dedicated to behavior therapy and management of animals in applied settings.

PRIME your dog!

The hope is that this SIG will begin to foster a greater understanding of the impact of behavior analysis on behavioral medicine.

If you are interested in the dissemination of our science of Behavior Analysis worldwide, this is the place for you. We're looking to take Behavior Analysis out of its pigeon-holes, and really publicize the potential to develop global solutions in all realms of life. We've demonstrated our efficacy in the Autism/DD world, and we're really good at proving that our interventions work...to ourselves. We are not as good at getting the word out to those who aren't aware of the science of behavior!

As behavior analysis becomes increasingly professionalized, it has developed difficulties unique to the practice of behavior analysis in the school system, mental health system, and developmental disabilities system. This SIG is dedicated to the establishment of behavior analysis as a unique clinical practice. We support Federal, local, and state initiatives including but not limited to the licensing of behavior analysis. All behavior analysts involved in clinical practice, organizational behavior management, or social services are welcome to join the SIG.

Teaching Behavior Analysis (TBA) is a special interest group of the Association for Behavior Analysis. TBA's purpose is simple - to improve the teaching and learning of the principles and applications of behavior analysis in any setting where those activities occur. Those settings include formal classrooms; agencies and organizations that design behavioral interventions for children, adults, and animals; business concerns that provide performance management training for their personnel or consultees; and homes where the main concerns are caring and effective child-raising, supportive family relationships, and enjoyable, well-mannered pets.

Promotes collaboration between speech pathologists and behavior analysts in the dissemination of behaviorally oriented speech and language research.

This site provides students using Applied Behavior Analysis for Teachers, seventh edition, by Paul A. Alberto and Anne C. Troutman, with a wealth of resources. Here, users will find Chapter Summaries for each chapter. Students can also test their knowledge by taking Multiple Choice and True/False self assessment quizzes. These interactive test items provide immediate feedback with a percentage score and the correct answers. Short Answer Questions and Activities are also provided to help students better understand chapter concepts. Web Links provide more avenues of research and study on the Internet. Downloadable Data Sheets are available for data collection. Select chapters also have exercises that accompany the text Graphing in Excel by Cihak et al., which is helpful when working with data. You can download a copy of the text here. In addition, the Message Board offers a threaded bulletin board environment with discussion-starting topics where students can interact with and respond to each other.

ABA study guides including ALL chapters for Cooper, Heron, & Heward as well as study info for Acronyms, Assessment and more!

This website is a companion for the text Behavior Analysis for Effective Teaching, written by Dr. Julie Vargas. This website is an addition to the site maintained by the publisher, Routledge / Taylor and Francis. This additional site provides flexibility not possible with a publisher???s site where material cannot be updated frequently.

Features of this site include: Summary and Objectives for each chapter, Self-Assessments in both multiple choice and essay format, Guided Notes to accompany the PowerPoint lecture slides, Graphing - detailed step-by-step instructions for creating behavioral graphs, and Web Links to connect to alternate avenues for research and discovery

"Applied Behavior Analysis, 2nd Edition" (a.k.a. "The White Book") by John O. Cooper, Ed.D., Timothy E. Heron, Ed.D., and William L. Heward, Ed.D. is THE comprehensive resource for the behavior scientist practitioner. In this text, the reader will find an in depth account of the principles and procedures used by the behavior analytic practioner. Study Guides for this text are based on the content taken from the extensive Glossary in the text. These Study Guides are broken down into 9 out of the 10 Content Areas listed in the Behavior Analyst Certification Board Third Edition Task List and were designed for aspiring practitioners interested in sitting for the BCBA or BCaBA certification examination. If you encounter any typos, problems, or just have questions about the study guide please contact us.

19-premade flashcards for terms in Chapter one of the Cooper et al, textbook: Applied Behavior Analysis.

Presentation by Michael J. Cameron, PhD, BCBA Chair, Department of Behavior Analysis, Simmons College

Applied Behavior Analysis Teaching Strategies | CHILDNETT.TV

Links to Behavior Analysis Video and Audio Resources

Free Videos are produced by behavior analysts, just like you, and show a particular skill, concept, or theoretical construct. Videos are submitted by behavior analysts from all over the world. Those that meet criterion (see submission criteria) are uploaded to the site for your viewing pleasure. Videos are typically less than 5 minutes in length. The foci of the videos are clarity of the behavior analytic topic, effective presentation, and quality of the video itself (lighting, sound, editing). They don???t have to be fancy, MovieMaker©, iMovie©, or other low-cost editing programs are fine, but they must be comprehensible. Staff training and other Organizational Behavior Management ??? type videos are also welcome. Creativity, humor, and unique topics can absolutely tip the scales of a video that is somewhat marginal in quality

Click on the following videos to view them. Each clip lasts from about 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Ask yourself: How would I have prevented that situation from ever developing? How could I have responded at various points during the incident? (If your answer is "Yell and scream.", you need to read more pages on this site.) How would you have responded after the incident?

PAUL L. BROWN AND HERBERT M. JENKINS MCMASTER UNIVERSITY Reliable acquistion of the pigeon's key-peck response resulted from repeated unconditional (response-independent) presentations of food after the response key was illuminated momen- tarily. Comparison groups showed that acquisition was dependent upon light-food pairings, inthatorder.

We proposethatindividualswhoarerecipientsorpotentialrecipientsoftreatmentdesignedto change their behavior have the right to a therapeutic environment, services whose overriding goal ispersonalwelfare,treatmentbyacompetentbehavioranalyst,programsthatteachfunctionalskils, behavioralassessmentandongoingevaluation,andthemostefectivetreatmentproceduresavailable. DESCRIPTORS: behavioral treatment, clients, ethics, treatment.

Richard P. Hastings and Stephen J. Noone University of Wales Bangor, UK Abstract: Ethical guidelines for behavior analysts state that functional assessment should be used before implementing treatment plans. In this paper, we discuss the ethical implications of this position using self-injurious behavior in people with developmental disabilities as a focus. Evidence is reviewed that suggests that treatment based on results of a functional assessment is likely to be more effective, less likely to be considered restrictive, more likely to be perceived as socially valid, and also focuses on principles of a constructional approach to behavior change. Alongside this generally positive evidence, there are ethical problems with the validity of some assessment methods, their potential lack of clarity, and the intensive resources required by a functional assessment. Effective, socially valid, and constructional interventions for self-injury might also be developed using preventative interventions. The balance of all of these ethical issues needs to be considered in the design of any treatments for self-injurious behavior.

Functional analysis of behavior depends upon accurate measurement of both independent and dependent variables. Quantifiable and controllable operations that demonstrate these functional relationships are necessary for a science of human behavior. Failure to implement independent variables with integrity threatens the internal and external validity of experiments. A review of applied behavior analysis studies with children as subjects that have been published in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis between 1980 and 1990 found that approximately 16% of these studies measured the accuracy of independent variable implementation.Two thirds of these studies did not operationally define the components of the independent variable. Specific recommendations for improving the accuracy of independent variable implementation and for defining independent variables are discussed.

AANE offers a comprehensive array of programs and services responsive to the needs of the various sectors of the AS community.

This book was shown to me by a client as a book she purchased for her son with Aspergers. Different Like Me showcases inspirational figures from the world of science, art, maths, literature, philosophy and comedy.

From AANE's video library: A short film written and directed by Kaz Gamble of AA Films Nominated for "Best Documentary Short" at the 2009 Woods Hole Film Festival

Some tips on getting started with a home program and useful links to texts, articles and other websites.

Parenting tips for children on the autism spectrum. Is it possible to live with autism without losing your mind, your life savings, or your spouse? Yes! It may be an uphill climb at times, but there are also some surprisingly easy spots. So for those parents who are determined to enjoy life with autism, welcome.

...hardly the extent of what the candidates need to understand about the state of autism in the United States today. Preventing future cases is crucial, but so is addressing the huge unmet needs of the more than 1 million Americans already afflicted.

Autism Speaks is dedicated to facilitating global research into the causes, treatments and an eventual cure for autism by: Promoting cross-disciplinary cooperation, Funding research, Organizing research summit meetings, Establishing standards for data collection and management to benefit the scientific community

A blog space from Judith Ursitti, Jack and Amy's mom, Autism Speaks Regional Director of State Advocacy Relations

Restrictive Diets May Not Be Appropriate for Children With Autism

BCBA Task List for Working with Persons with Autism

The Autism Special Interest Group (SIG) of the Association for Behavior Analysis asserts that all children and adults with autism spectrum disorders have the right to effective education and treatment based on the best available scientific evidence. Unfortunately, many interventions for autism have not been shown to be effective in sound research; others have been shown to be ineffective or harmful.1 Research has long documented the effectiveness of applied behavior analysis (ABA) methods in the education and treatment of people with autism.2 Although it is beyond the scope of these guidelines, the Autism SIG urges consumers to inquire about scientific support for all autism treatments. The Association for Science in Autism Treatment and the Cambridge Center for Behavioral Studies host websites that provide consumers with a wealth of information about autism treatments (please visit www.asatonline.org and www.behavior.org). For more information on these Guidelines, please visit www.autismsig.org.

Federal Definition: i.Autism means a developmental disability significantly affecting verbal and nonverbal communication and social interaction, generally evident before age 3, that adversely affects a child's educational performance. Other characteristics often associated with autism are engagement in repetitive activities and stereotyped movements, resistance to environmental change or change in daily routines, and unusual responses to sensory experiences. The term does not apply if a child's educational performance is adversely affected primarily because the child has an emotional disturbance, as defined in paragraph (b)(4) of this section. ii.A child who manifests the characteristics of "autism" after age 3 could be diagnosed as having "autism" if the criteria in paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section are satisfied.

Educate Autism is a website dedicated to helping those working with children with autism by providing free teaching materials, various tutorials to help you make your own teaching aids and informational articles about Applied Behaviour Analysis and behavioural principles.

First Signs is dedicated to educating parents and professionals about the early warning signs of autism and related disorders..

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the most research-based and effective educational interventions for children with Autism. Many schools are opening that teach children with Autism using ABA. Follow these guidelines to help find a quality ABA school for your child

This site links you directly to incentive charts which can be downloaded and customized. Great resource for parents & educators!

OAR has published six Life Journey guidebooks and The Best of The OARacle to date. You can read their descriptions, preview each online, or download copies at no cost.

FREE teaching materials...GREAT resource!

There may be no greater challenge facing public schools today than the staggering increase in children diagnosed with autism. Even though the law requires school districts to provide a free "appropriate" education to every student, school budgets are not growing nearly as rapidly as the number of children classified as having special needs. Parents are increasingly demanding more than basics; they want intensive, expensive services that offer the best chance to rescue their child from a lifetime of disability.

Just as students can learn from each member of the school community, the school staff and peers can learn that students with autism have a lot to offer in return. The purpose of this kit is to provide information about autism

What is PDD/ASD? PDD is an acronym for Pervasive Developmental Disorder. PDD and ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) are the same thing. They are the umbrella under which other disorders fall: Autism, PDD-NOS (not otherwise specified), Asperger

It is important to understand that ABA is a framework for the practice of a science and not a specific program. This can be a difficult point to discern when one begins an examination of programs for children with autism and regularly encounters tales of folks who are "doing ABA." Typically these folks are actually running a Lovaas-type program or another program based on discrete trials (which, indeed, are an important element of many ABA-based interventions, but are not the whole of ABA itself). It may seem a semantic argument, but one should remember that ABA is a set of principles and guidelines upon which educational programs (or any number of applications) are based and shouldn't be used synonymously with a specific program.

There is no single treatment protocol for all children with autism, but most individuals respond best to highly structured behavioral programs. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development lists Applied Behavior Analysis among the recommended treatment methods for autism spectrum disorders.

Visit this site to find a list of tips for parents who might be ready to hit the beach and test the waters during Autism Awareness Month.

Air travel horror stories typically involve lost luggage, missed connections and overzealous security staff. But families affected by autism face other challenges in navigating airports and planes. A Philadelphia program is bringing families, airport employees and airlines together to help autistic kids fly more comfortably.

Considerations when Choosing a Behavioral Science Provider - The question How can I choose among behavioral service providers? is answered by Robert LaRue, Ph.D., BCBA-D, Associate Director of Behavioral and Research Services, Douglass Developmental Disabilities Center, Rutgers University and Lori Bechner, M.A., BCBA Clinical Director, Educational Partnership for Instructing Children (EPIC)

"The Board Certified Behavior Analyst is an independent practitioner who also may work as an employee or independent contractor for an organization. The BCBA conducts descriptive and systematic (e.g., analogue) behavioral assessments, including functional analyses, and provides behavior analytic interpretations of the results. The BCBA designs and supervises behavior analytic interventions. The BCBA is able to effectively develop and implement appropriate assessment and intervention methods for use in unfamiliar situations and for a range of cases. The BCBA seeks the consultation of more experienced practitioners when necessary. The BCBA teaches others to carry out ethical and effective behavior analytic interventions based on published research and designs and delivers instruction in behavior analysis. BCBAs supervise the work of Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts and others who implement behavior analytic interventions."

The Lovaas Institute is very concerned about the current public health crisis

"The Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Discover some facts and fictions about Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA). "It became very clear during the conversation that they all were under the misimpression that the BCBA

Sign up for emails on alerts on topics pertinent to the professional of Applied Behavior Analysis

Life from the perspective of a perpetual behavior analyst.

Follow Behaviorbabe on Facebook. This site is used to promote links, discussions, and news updates on the topic of Applied behavior analysis (ABA).

Another great website developed by a BCBA for anyone interested in learning more about the field of Applied Behavior Analysis

A list of new, favorite or useful books and manuals authored by Behavior Analysts or coming from a behavioral perspective.

Behavior Analysis, Autism, & Procrastination as presented by Dr. Dick Malott

Julie Vargas (formerly Skinner) was born in 1938 in Minneapolis where she lived for six years. After 2 years in Indiana, her family moved to Cambridge, Massachusetts. She received her bachelors in music from Radcliffe College, a masters in music education from Columbia University, and a Ph.D. in educational research from the University of Pittsburgh. She taught 3rd and 4th grade before becoming a faculty member at West Virginia University where she taught practicing and prospective teachers for over 35 years. Dr. Vargas is a former president of the Association for Behavior Analysis International and one of the founding editors of The Behavior Analyst. She is currently President of the B. F. Skinner Foundation, in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Blogging for ethical uses of behavior modification with no coercion or commandment of anyone, especially autistics and other people with disabilities. Ultimately this web log is about normal, healthy adults applying the principles of applied behavior analysis to improve the behavior of people with more power, what B.F. Skinner called counter-control.

A personal journey into the ABA World

Dr. Bill Heward's curriculm vitae, The Ohio State faculty page and student resources can be found here.

What is a behavior intervention plan? What does it look like? What should be included? Things to remember and sample BIP templates.

CE Events offered by Applied Behavior Analysis: International

Find a Behavior Analysis, Education, or Human Services event, conference or training near you.

Home to the BDS CD module series that promises you will pass the BACB exams or your money-back guaranteed. This company also offers CE events for BCBAs, BCaBA's and Psych. Take a look!

SEEM Collaborative Behavior Analyst Continuing Education Series will offer trainings targeted for the behavior analytic practitioner, though all are invited to attend for a cost of $5 per person per session. (1) CE unit will be offered per training (BCBA and BCaBA only). In order to receive CEU, individuals must bring their BACB certificate number. Each 1 hour training will run from 7:00-8:00 pm, the third Monday of each month at the SEEM Collaborative Administrative Offices which is located at 92 Montvale Avenue, Suite 3500, Stoneham, Massachusetts, 02180. For more information or to RSVP, contact ace@seemcollaborative.org. Space is limited.

Methods and Strategies: Applied Behavioral Analysis & Discrete Trial Training

A quick visual and clear description of discrete trial teaching procedures.

An overview and brief statement about what to expect with a discrete trial teaching program.

Overview covering an Introduction to the Discrete Trial, an Example, Discriminative Stimulus (SD), Responses, Reinforcing Stimulus, Schedules of Reinforcement, Addressing Challenging Behaviors, The Inter-trial Interval, Prompting and Teaching Complex Behaviors

Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Licensing of Applied Behavior Analysts.

Answers to such questions as: what is applied behavior analysis, why is the field called ABA, if thoughts and feelings don't explain behavior, what does, does biology matter, what is behavior and more!

The questions on this site are examples of the kinds of questions asked by people interested in basic and applied behavior analysis. If you want to add a question, please use the BAAM suggestions page. We cannot answer every question or provide treatment advice. But we can address general inquiries about the basic and applied behavior analysis, as well as questions about the history, philosophy, and theory of behaviorism.

What is ABA? What are key elements of an ABA program? What is verbal behavior? What skills can be taught using ABA? Why is data collection and analysis so important?

What Is "ABA"?, How Is "ABA" Used With Children With Autism?, How Does "ABA" Work To Help My Child Make As Many Gains As He Can?, Isn't Running A Home Program Overwhelming?, How Does One Fund This Type Of Intervention?, How Long Does This Treatment Take?, How Do I Know If This Is Right For My Child?, If I Think I Want To Do This, How Do I Get Started?, Where Can I Find Legal Information?

Because single-subject design methodology is the cornerstone of behavior-analytic research, behavior analysts are often engaged in the practice of graph production. There are a variety of computer software packages on the market that can be used to create graphs; however, not all of them are suitable for producing single-subject design line graphs. Microsoft Excel 97 for Windows 95/NT and MacOS operating systems contains a variety of features that are conducive to producing reversal, multiple baseline, and multielement graphs (among others) that conform to many of the technical recommendations for publication in the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis. We present detailed instructions on creating these graphs using Microsoft Excel.

Whether graphing equations or making a coordinate grid, HandyGraph helps you create attractive graphical images quickly.

The Association for Behavior Analysis InternationalTM (ABA InternationalTM) is a nonprofit professional membership organization with the mission to develop, enhance, and support the growth and vitality of behavior analysis through research, education, and practice.

The Association of Professional Behavior Analysts (APBA) is a new organization with the primary mission of serving the needs of professional behavior analyst practitioners credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB).

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board, Inc. is a nonprofit corporatino established as a result of credentialing needs identified by behavior analysts, state governments, and consumers of behavior analysis services. The BACB's mission is to develop, promote, and implement a voluntary international certification program for behavior analyst practitioners.

Find information pertaining to the ABBLS-R [Assessment of Basic Language Learning Skills-Revised], Workshops and other helpful resources on this site.

it is the position of the Behavior Analysis Association of Michigan (BAAM) that the use of any augmentative communication technique must be based upon clear, objective, and scientifically valid evidence that the augmented communications of any individual are reliably and unambiguously attributable to that individual, BAAM does not support or endorse the use of facilitated communication as a form of therapy.

Established in 1987 to publish significant literary and scientific works in the analysis of behavior and to educate both professionals and the public about the science of behavior. Documents on Skinner, publications, images and audio recordings, and a self-paced program of instruction in behavior analysis.

Mission: We at the Kennedy Krieger Institute dedicate ourselves to helping children and adolescents with disorders of the brain and spinal cord achieve their potential and participate as fully as possible in family, school, and community life.

Pyramid offers a variety of training opportunities and products that focus on the initiation of communication and the design of effective educational environments utilizing structural elements. We present a unique blend of broad spectrum applied behavior analysis in conjunction with the development of functional communication skills - emphasizing the individual needs of each learner. We are the premier source of training for the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and instructional elements.

My passion is to remove the obstacles to learning for all students and these free tools offer opportunities for struggling learners that promote academic success. When material is digital or electronic, it is flexible and accessible. It is our responsibility as educators to provide materials that promote success. Please encourage all educators to consider using these free tools.

Good news for parents of individuals with autism in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, both states have recently enacted autism insurance reform legislation. In New Hampshire, House Bill 569, Connor

For two years, Lisa McHenry fought a legal battle to force her insurer to pay for her son's specialized autism therapy. But PacificSource Health Plans of Springfield refused and prevailed at every turn in court. Then came a ruling this week by U.S. Magistrate Judge Janice M. Stewart in Portland, who ordered PacificSource to reimburse McHenry for the last eight months of her boy's therapy.

Resources for Addressing Insurer Claims

Visit this site to see what initiatives related to Autism Insurance Reform are going on in each state. Stay current on information advocating for Insurance coverage of approved therapies such as: Habilitative or rehabilitative care, Pharmacy care, Psychiatric care, Psychological care, Therapeutic care, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCIAL SERVICES 11 NYCRR 440 (INSURANCE REGULATION 201) PROVIDER REQUIREMENTS FOR INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT OF APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS

Tampa PR Firm, Kim Francis Communications' client Behavioral Consulting of Tampa Bay, discusses the release of 2 new federal surveys indicating a higher prevalence of autism. More and more parents are turning to Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, the only therapy with more than 30 years of studies proving it's effectiveness.

The term ABA stands for Applied Behavior Analysis. It's an approach that was derived from learning theory. In ABA, a socially significant behavior is targeted, such as a child learning to make request. And then an environmental alteration is introduced, such as teaching instructions and a reward for a correct response.

The "typically developing" siblings of autistic children are, in fact, the furthest thing from typical. Often, they are wiser and more mature than their age would suggest. And they have to be, given the myriad challenges they face: parental responsibility; a feeling of isolation from the rest of their family; confusion, fear, anger and embarrassment about their autistic sibling. And on top of all of it, guilt for having these feelings.

Behaviorism as a philosophy of science began with an article by John B. Watson in 1913, and its several varieties inform different behavior-related disciplines. During the past 100 years, disciplinary developments have led to a clarified version of behaviorism informing a basic, separate natural science of behavior. This recently emerged independent discipline not only complements other natural sciences, but also shares in solving local and global problems by showing how to discover and effectively control the variables that unlock solutions to the common behavior-related components of these problems.

I spent much of high school trying not to be interested in ideas. I studied hard and made good grades, but I didn't hang out with the nerds. This was partly because hanging out with nerds wasn't cool and partly because the kind of intellectualism they exuded didn't enthrall me. They talked about Camus and Sartre and Nietzsche -- people I hadn't heard much about in my life as an Army brat and people my mildly anti-intellectual father would have disdained had anyone explained to him who they were. Then my sister's husband (an aspiring psychologist whose preference for graduate school over employment my father wasn't wild about) suggested I read Beyond Freedom and Dignity by B.F. Skinner.

When a Mumbai hotel was besieged by terrorists in 2008, something extraordinary happened: Workers didn't flee. They stayed behind to help save guests at the risk of their own lives. What could possibly explain it? A new study attempts to answer that question.

A Nov 2009 Time Health report on the benefits and evidence in support of behavior analysis for treatment of children with autism

If you bring aboard a bag for the overhead compartment, you have to pay extra. If you don't pay for it when you book the ticket, you pay even more. That's the basic behavior modification principal IdeaWorks talks about.

They are a unique part of our journey, these therapists. They often confirm our worst fears, that as parents of children with autism we may not always know what to do or how to handle specific situations, but the really smart ones, the keepers, are also the first to admit that we know our child best and that a mother???s intuition trumps a fancy college degree any day.

This is the portal through which you may access BAO journals. Such as The Behavior Analyst Today, International Journal of Behavioral Consultation and Therapy, The Journal of Early and Intensive Behavior Intervention, Journal of Behavior Assessment and Intervention in Children, The Journal of Behavior Analysis in Health, Sports, Fitness and Medicine, The Journal of Behaviorial Health & Medicine, Journal of Behavior Analysis of Offender and Victim Treatment and Prevention, the Journal of Speech - Language Pathology and Applied Behavior Analysis The Behavior Development Bulletin Volume I and II of the Behavior Analysis Review

The Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis is a psychology journal that publishes research about applications of the experimental analysis of behavior to problems of social importance.

Keywords: Behavioral Science, Medicine, Psychology, Health Psychology, Clinical Psychology and Public Health

ABA International

In order to comply with the federal mandate (Public Law 102-119, known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Part B (34 CFR Parts 300 and 301 and Appendix C) that all disabled children receive a free appropriate public education, a school district must provide special education and related services at no cost to the child or her/his parents. This site is intended to be a beginning point for research by parents, educators, state and federal staff members, and other interested parties into a wide range of issues involving disabilities and disability law.

June 27, 2008: Court supports parent right to independent functional behavioral assessment(FBA) The district argued that the FBA was not an educational evaluation and therefore, the parent had no right to an independent evaluation (IEE). In Harris v. District of Columbia decided June 23, 2008, the Court found otherwise and additionally held that the district

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law ensuring services to children with disabilities throughout the nation. IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities. Infants and toddlers with disabilities (birth-2) and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C. Children and youth (ages 3-21) receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B.

Education and Disability Law Resources

The Massachusetts Department of Education and the Federation for Children with Special Needs have worked collaboratively to create a product that will serve parents well in their need to gather information regarding special education services. The two agencies do not necessarily agree on all policy interpretations; however, we do agree that it is important for parents to have the most accurate and up-to-date information available, in order that they may work as equal partners with their school system in special education decision-making.

A how-to for the process of special education. Definitions of individualized education plans, evaluation reports, and the local education agency

This web page provides a comprehensive listing of state statutes, regulations, policies, and procedures regarding the use of emergency or planned physical, chemical, mechanical, or other restraints. Additional documents offer information on positive behavior support guidelines, training manuals, and other policy-related materials. Many emphasize the use of positive or non-aversive interventions. Links are provided to access documents on many state DD agency websites. Please review the materials and links listed for your state to make sure that all relevant information is included and appropriately referenced. Send additional articles, revisions, comments, and suggestions to Chas Moseley.

An excerpt of the advisory provided to school districts can be found on this site. If you live in a different state visit: http://www.doe.mass.edu/sped/advisories/07_1ta.html

In this issue of the Special Ed Advocate, you'll find information for your child about becoming an effective self-advocate, tips about students taking a role on the IEP team, and resources and encouragement to help kids navigate transition challenges.

The practice of behavior analysis in Massachusetts is in jeopardy. The Massachusetts Psychological Association wants to take control of the practice of behavior analysis. They have introduced a bill that would deny most of the 700 BCBAs the right to practice behavior analysis. Fortunately, behavior analysts have a voice in the Massachusetts legislature in Rep. John Scibak of South Hadley. Rep. Scibak has introduced a bill that would uphold the right to practice of persons credentialed by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board. For a better understanding of the dire situation our right to practice faces, please read the following press release by the BACB (see above). Now is the time to call upon our own legislators to urge their support. Your voice on this important issue matters - please contact your legislator to let him or her know how important this issue is to you!

The Behavior Analyst Certification Board

Applied behavior analysis is a hybrid tradition with roots in many mental health disciplines. Even with these diverse origins, the professional practice of behavior analysis remains distinct and identifiable. Given these factors the professional practice special interest group (SIG) for the Association for Behavior Analysis International has proposed a model-licensing act. The behavior analyst model-licensing act (BAMLA) seeks to restrict the title of

Dear Rep. [insert name] I am a writing to ask for your support and co-sponsorship for a bill introduced by Rep. John Scibak recently, An Act Relative to the Licensure of Behavior Analysts. Rep. Scibak is highly qualified to propose this bill, being both a licensed psychologist and a behavior analyst with excellent training from Notre Dame. For over a year, Rep. Scibak has worked with The Berkshire Association for Behavior Analysis and Therapy (BABAT) to develop its particulars. He has also worked with representatives from all the national organizations for behavior analysts to develop its language. Finally, he has worked closely with some of Massachusetts own citizen/experts in behavior analysis. He's been very thorough and comprehensive. This is a matter of great importance to me, and so I again ask for your support and co-sponsorship for the bill introduced by Rep. John Scibak, An Act Relative to the Licensure of Behavior Analysts. Thank you for your consideration of this. [Your name and address here]

The 36-credit graduate program in ABA has a course sequence approved by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB©), the organization overseeing the credentialing needs of behavior analysts internationally. Additionally, the program includes an option for the completion of the experiential learning requirements necessary to achieve certification (1500 hours of supervised, independent fieldwork). This graduate program has been approved by the BACB. Director: Susan Ainsleigh, PhD, BCBA

A list of 63 graduate schools that offer programs in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Florida Tech offers a comprehensive professional development program in behavior analysis both online and in a traditional classroom setting. The Florida Tech behavior analysis courses listed below meet the instructional requirements towards certification as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Autism Safety Project brought to you by Autism Speaks.

Considerations for goals and concepts to teach related to safety awareness

An article examining teaching household safety skills to children with autism

SEEM Collaborative currently employs several Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), all in good standing with the Behavior Analyst Certification Board who provide and supervise ABA services, for students ages 3-22. Four main areas of service are provided:

"In December 2008, JISH will provide Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy to children with Autism"

Morningside Academy's school helps elementary and middle school students to catch up and get ahead. Most of its students did not perform to their potential in their previous schools. Morningside Academy offers a money-back guarantee for progressing 2 years in 1 in the skill of greatest deficit. In twenty-five years, Morningside Academy has returned less than one percent of school-year tuition.

TAGteach is a revolutionary science-based technology that enables educators and coaches to teach efficiently and helps students learn effectively. TAG is an acronym for Teaching with Acoustical Guidance. The focused, positive nature of this method yields immediate and stunning results that are clearly evident to teachers, students and parents. Read in-depth articles and scientific research by visiting this site.

The Parent Information Project is a statewide training and information dissemination project located at the Federation for Children with Special Needs (FCSN) and funded by the Massachusetts Department of Education, Office of Special Services. The intent of the project is to enhance the involvement of parents of children with special needs in their children's education, development, and transition to adult life.

TSA frequently receives questions regarding the difference between a Section 504 Plan and an IEP (Individualized Education Program). More and more schools are denying parental requests for the classification of children with TS under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) under which the child would be eligible for an IEP (Individualized Education Program.) They are opting instead to provide a Section 504 Accommodation Plan under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Parents are often confused about the difference between the two options, which one is more appropriate and offers more protection for their child. They also have concerns about which will provide their child with the optimum learning environment based on their level of disability. In this article, you will learn about Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), as contrasted with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

ABA International is pleased to host the 37th Annual Convention in Denver, Colorado, May 27-May 31, 2011. Information regarding submissions, travel, and advertising opportunities can be found by clicking on this link.

Preview and register for a behavior analysis, education, or human services seminar, workshop or conference. Find CEUs for your profession.

Providing expert training, certification and consultatino to education and human service professionals worldwide...

Thank you for your interest in the Carbone Clinic and our services. We have been providing quality applied behavior analysis (ABA) services to persons with autism and related disabilities for many years. Since June of 2003, we expanded our services to better meet the needs of those we serve through a center-based clinic program located 20 miles north of New York City in Rockland County, NY.

A Guide to Supplementary Papers and Links, by Dave Palmer

Downloadable VB Materials from Mariposa School. Mission: To provide intensive instruction in a supportive environment designed to improve communication skills and therefore quality of life for children with autism and other developmental disabilities and their families.

Data sheets, powerpoint presentations and articles pertaining to the topic of Verbal Behavior as presented by Dr. Mark L. Sundberg.

This SIG is dedicated to the study of "language" from a behavior analytic point of view. Behavior Analysts attempt to study humans and nonhumans as objectively as possible, thus the focus on observable behaviors, as well as antecedents and consequences of those behaviors. The term "verbal behavior" was coined by Skinner (1957)- see that text for an in-depth analysis of language from a behavioral perspective.

When and How to Teach Yes/No

ABSTRACT: We assessed the effects of video modeling on acquisition and generalization of conversational skills among autistic children. Three autistic boys observed videotaped conversations consisting of two people discussing specific toys. When criterion for learning was met, generalization of conversational skills was assessed with untrained topics of conversation; new stimuli (toys); unfamiliar persons, siblings, and autistic peers; and other settings. The results indicated that the children learned through video modeling, generalized their conversational skills, and maintained conversational speech over a 15-month period. Video modeling shows much promise as a rapid and effective procedure for teaching complex verbal skills such as conversational speech.

ABSTRACT: We evaluated video modeling and reinforcement for teaching perspective-taking skills to 3 children with autism using a multiple baseline design. Video modeling and reinforcement were effective; however, only 2 children were able to pass an untrained task, indicating limited generalization. The findings suggest that video modeling may be an effective technology for teaching perspective taking if researchers can continue to develop strategies for enhancing the generalization of these new skills.

Certificant Registry: This Registry is a voluntary listing of BACB certificants. Persons who wish to verify an individual's official certification status, or certificants not wishing to have their names listed in he Registry, should contact the BACB at info@bacb.com with their request.

You should feel free to ask the consultant how they will help and what processes they will use. If the consultant does not say they will use the methods listed above, ask them why not. If they do not have the training to use the procedures, that means you should find a different consultant who has this training, experience and skills (even if they have a license to practice psychology or an impressive title).

The mission of Shari Daisy Consulting, LLC is to improve the lives of people in educationally and socially significant ways through the use of thorough and individualized application of behavior analytic principles.

Find educational consultants, psychologists, educational diagnosticians, health care providers, academic therapists, tutors, speech language therapists, occupational therapists, coaches, advocates, and attorneys for children with disabilities on the Yellow Pages for Kids for your state. You will also find special education schools, learning centers, treatment programs, parent groups, respite care, community centers, grassroots organizations, and government programs for children with disabilities.

What do I look for in a behavioral service provider? The effectiveness of the interventions they use. Formal credentialing of professional behavior analysts (i.e., registration, certification, or licensure) can provide safeguards for consumers, including means of screening potential providers and some recourse if incompetent or unethical practices are encountered. At present, however, procedures for credentialing professional behavior analysts are in place in only a few states. Consumers are encouraged to review the Revised Guidelines for Consumers of Applied Behavior Analysis Services to Individuals with Autism and Related Disorders. This helpful tool was developed by the Autism Special Interest Group of the Association for Behavior Analysis.

This is truly a $64,000 question, at least. Presently there are no "official" standards for certifying or licensing applied behavior analysts nationwide. Some states, however, have certification or registration procedures for behavior analysts (e.g., Florida, California), and the field has identified the following formal training and competencies required of professionals in behavior analysis...