Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a commonly recommended method for supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism. Whether your child is enrolled in ABA therapy or about to be, there are several common phrases and terms to be aware of.
Below is a list of some of the most common terminology used in ABA therapy.
Common Terminology in ABA Therapy
Reinforcement
Reinforcement plays a significant role in ABA therapy. Positive reinforcement, such as rewards like giving a child their favorite toy or engaging in an activity they prefer encourages repeated positive behaviors for future interactions. ABA therapy is data-driven: It focuses on positive reinforcement since it’s more effective and enjoyable for children.
Reinforcement Schedules
Reinforcement schedules refer to how often a behavior is reinforced. For example, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) may start by rewarding positive behaviors every time they occur. Gradually, as the skill is built, the clinician will begin to reduce the frequency of rewards so that the skill no longer needs to be reinforced and is naturally maintained.
Prompting
Prompting is a phrase used to describe “cues” for a child to respond to during a session. Verbal prompts can include asking a child to do a task. Visual prompts show pictures to demonstrate a behavior like a clinician holding up a picture of someone using a fork to get the child to use a fork.
A gestural prompt means gesturing, like pointing, to show a child what the next step is. Fading prompts refer to reducing the number of requests, eventually leading to the action independently.
Generalization
Generalization involves teaching patients how to apply their practiced skills to similarly applicable situations. A child who learns how to wait their turn for the slide at school can also use the same skills to wait their turn for ice cream, a board game, and more.
Maintenance
Maintenance refers to the upkeep of skills after the positive behavior is established. Think of it like children getting a toy from the dentist’s office. Eventually, the child grows out of needing a toy and ages out of the process.
In ABA therapy, maintenance means a clinician doesn’t have to give positive reinforcement to continue a behavior. However, occasional reinforcement or refresher sessions might be necessary to ensure the behavior is maintained over time.
Stimulus Control
Stimulus control involves teaching positive behaviors by associating them with certain stimuli (or prompting events). For example, a therapist waving hello would become associated with their client responding with a verbal greeting or a similar waving gesture.
Task Analysis
Task analysis involves breaking down tasks into smaller steps for a patient to grasp. For example, if a patient has trouble remembering the correct order for brushing their teeth, they may first practice by applying toothpaste to a toothbrush before teaching the child to brush their teeth independently. Eventually, all the steps are put together through “chaining” each action.
Ready to begin the journey with ABA?
There’s no need to study terminology beforehand! Your BCBA is likely more than happy to keep you in the loop about all you need to know to help your child thrive and have a joyful life.
Brad Zelinger is the founder and CEO of Stride Autism Centers.
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