Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy is a technique centered upon the idea that people’s behaviors are often a result of external factors, including environment and experiences. Today, ABA therapy is the most widely-used form of behavioral therapy used to treat individuals on the Autism spectrum. Like psychology itself, the history of this method is an interesting one.

Behaviorism

In the early days of psychology, psychologists didn’t formally study or analyze behavior like they do today. Instead, most research centered upon thoughts and consciousness, which are unobservable components of the psyche. John Watson, the “father” of Behaviorism, asserted in 1913 that behavior is a result of observable events, instead of a response to internal factors.

Watson’s ideas were later complemented by his peer Jacob Robert Kantor and other Behaviorists, including Ivan Pavlov. Pavlov authored the famous study involving a dog, food, and a bell, in which he showed that our behaviors could be an involuntary reaction to conditioning. B.F. Skinner soon after developed the theory of Operant Conditioning, which deals with changing voluntary actions.

ABA Therapy

In 1987, psychologist Ivar Lovaas—the father of ABA—published Behavioral Treatment and Normal Educational and Intellectual Functioning in Young Autistic Children. This study involved giving 40 children intense ABA therapy over two to six years. The result was a significant improvement in multiple areas, including social skills and cognition.

Based on Lovaas’s findings, more psychologists began using ABA principles, including the emphasis on positive reinforcement for good behaviors and environmental manipulation to prompt voluntary behavioral changes. Today, in addition to helping patients make positive, voluntary behavioral changes to benefit themselves and others, ABA also teaches children valuable skills and how to use them.

If your child is on the Autism spectrum and may benefit from ABA therapy, turn to Compass Innovative Behavior Strategies. Located in Concord, NH, this behavioral therapy provider offers communication and occupational therapies through a private educational program to treat patients with Autism and other developmental delays. Dedicated to helping families and individuals, this experienced team also has offices in Nashua and Marlborough for greater accessibility. Call (603) 488-5008 to speak with a caring staff member and schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about the clinic.