Understanding Applied Behavior Analysis Basics

Nov 2, 2024

Lecture Notes: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

Overview of Applied Behavior Analysis

  • ABA has been a scientific discipline for decades.
  • Focus on understanding why people behave in certain ways and how they respond to reinforcement and their environment.
  • Objective: Improve lives and relationships through behavior modification.
  • Involves setting short-term goals to achieve larger objectives.
  • Treatment plans manipulate the environment to promote learning.

Application in Therapy

  • Primarily used to provide therapy to individuals with developmental disabilities.
  • Applies the science of behavior to physical health changes.
  • Unlike traditional psychology, which relies on talk therapy and cognition, ABA focuses on observable, measurable behavior.
  • Example: Treating depression through observable behavior changes like engagement in positive activities and sleep patterns.

Levels of Certification in ABA

  1. Registered Behavior Technician (RBT):

    • Works one-on-one with clients.
    • Requires a high school education or GED.
    • Salary: $35,000+ per year.
  2. Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA):

    • Works alongside a BCBA supervisor.
    • Requires a bachelor's degree in behavior analysis, education, or psychology.
    • Salary: $40,000 - $75,000 per year.
  3. Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA):

    • Creates tailored treatment plans for clients.
    • Requires a master's degree or higher.
    • Salary: $75,000 - $100,000 per year.
  4. Doctoral Level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D):

    • Requires 10 years of experience as a BCBA and a PhD.
    • Salary: $100,000+ per year.
    • Necessary for opening your own clinic.

Personal Impact and Success Stories

  • ABA can significantly impact individuals and families.
  • Success is seen when a learned skill "clicks" for a child, making their day easier.
  • Personal accounts of children getting excited about behavior changes and parents' joy at seeing their child's progress.

Broad Application of ABA

  • ABA can be applied to a wide range of professions and areas within the community.
  • Behaviors are infinite, allowing for limitless application of ABA.
  • Examples of application:
    • Factory settings: Improving safety through behavior change.
    • Treating depression, gambling addiction, promoting social acceptance.
    • Reducing racism, poverty, and addiction through behavior-centered approaches.

Conclusion

  • ABA centers around behaviors and is applicable in diverse aspects of daily life.