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.

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.

Registered Behavior Technician (RBT):
- Works one-on-one with clients.
- Requires a high school education or GED.
- Salary: $35,000+ per year.
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.
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.
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.

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.

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.

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