ABA Therapy Glossary: Key Terms Defined

‍Defining the 33 Most Common ABA Terms

With so many new terminologies, learning about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for autism can be a daunting task.

To help make sense of it all, we have organized an A-Z Guide of the most common ABA therapy terms used. Our glossary simplifies those terms so you can feel more comfortable and informed.

To understand ABA therapy for autism, we provide you with simple definitions of the most commonly used terms.

ABCs

Positive reinforcement is a key part of ABA therapy. It can be explained using the ABCs of ABA therapy:

• Antecedent. This is what happens before the behavior of interest occurs
• Behavior. Used to describe what the person is doing
• Consequence. This is event that happens after the behavior of interest occurs.

In common language, the term "consequence" often implies a form of punishment. However, in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), we interpret this differently. Here, the events following a behavior act to either support or manage it.

An ABA "consequence" involves removing something from the environment. It should not be mistaken for a typical punishment.

Antecedent

An antecedent is what happens right before a behavior occurs. Understanding antecedents helps therapists predict and manage behaviors effectively.

Aversives

Aversives are unpleasant stimuli that are used to change behavior through punishment or negative reinforcement. In psychology, these unpleasant stimuli that induce changes in behavior via negative reinforcement or positive punishment.

Behavior

In ABA, behavior refers to any observable and measurable action. This can include anything from speaking to hand-flapping. Identifying specific behaviors is the first step in creating a treatment plan.

Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)

A Behavior Intervention Plan is a detailed plan that outlines strategies to address challenging behaviors. It includes the identified behavior, triggers, and specific interventions to be used.

Consequence

A consequence is what happens immediately after the behavior. Consequences can be positive or negative and influence whether the behavior will occur again in the future.

Data Collection

Data Collection is a crucial part of ABA therapy. It involves recording information about behaviors to track progress and make informed decisions about treatment.

Differential Reinforcement

Differential Reinforcement involves reinforcing a desired behavior while withholding reinforcement for undesired behaviors. This helps in increasing the occurrence of positive behaviors.

Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

Discrete Trial Training is a structured ABA technique that breaks down skills into small, "discrete" steps. Each trial consists of a clear beginning and end, allowing the child to learn one step at a time.

Discrimination Training

Discrimination Training involves teaching a child to distinguish between different stimuli. For example, identifying the difference between colors or shapes.

Extinction

Extinction is a technique used to reduce unwanted behaviors by no longer providing reinforcement. Over time, the behavior is expected to decrease as it is not rewarded.

Functional Communication Training (FCT)

Functional Communication Training aims to replace challenging behaviors with more appropriate communication methods. This could involve teaching a child to use words, signs, or pictures to express themselves.

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)

Functional Behavior Assessment involves collecting data to understand why a behavior is occurring. This assessment helps identify the function or purpose of the behavior, which is crucial for developing effective intervention strategies.

Generalization

Generalization is the ability to apply learned skills in different settings or situations. For example, a child who learns to greet someone at home can also greet people at school or in the community.

Intraverbal

Intraverbal refers to conversational skills where a child responds to another's speech. For example, answering questions or participating in back-and-forth dialogue.

Mand

A Mand is a type of verbal behavior where a child makes a request or demand. Teaching mands helps children communicate their needs more effectively.

Natural Environment Teaching (NET)

Natural Environment Teaching focuses on using the child's natural surroundings to teach skills. This approach helps children learn in real-life contexts, making it easier for them to apply new skills in various settings.

Pairing

Pairing involves associating oneself with positive reinforcement. Therapists use pairing to build a trusting relationship with the child, making therapy sessions more effective.

Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT)

Pivotal Response Treatment is a play-based intervention that targets pivotal areas of a child’s development. These motivation and response to multiple cues. By focusing on these areas, PRT aims to produce broad improvements in communication, behavior, and social skills.

Prompt

A prompt is a cue or assistance provided to encourage a correct response. Prompts can be verbal, physical, or visual, and are gradually faded out as the child becomes more independent.

Reinforcement

Reinforcement is a key principle in ABA. It involves providing a consequence that will increase the likelihood of a behavior occurring again. Positive reinforcement adds something enjoyable, while negative reinforcement removes something unpleasant.

Scripting

Scripting involves teaching a child to use pre-taught phrases or sentences in appropriate contexts. This helps in building conversational skills and social interactions.

Self-Management

Self-Management teaches children to monitor and regulate their own behavior. This skill helps them become more independent and capable of managing their actions in different situations.

Shaping

Shaping is a technique used to teach new behaviors by reinforcing successive approximations. This means rewarding closer and closer attempts to the desired behavior until it is achieved.

Social Skills Training

Social Skills Training involves teaching children how to interact appropriately with others. This can include making eye contact, sharing, and understanding social cues

Social Stories

Social Stories are short, descriptive stories that explain social situations and appropriate responses. They are used to teach children how to navigate social interactions and understand social norms.

Stimulus Control

Stimulus Control occurs when a behavior is performed more frequently in the presence of a specific stimulus. For example, a child may sit quietly when a particular song is played.

Tact

A Tact is a type of verbal behavior where a child labels or describes objects and events in their environment. This helps in building vocabulary and communication skills.

Task Analysis

Task Analysis involves breaking down a complex skill into smaller, manageable steps. Each step is taught individually and then combined to complete the full task.

Time-Out

Time-Out is a technique used to reduce unwanted behaviors. Removing children from a reinforcing environment for a short period helps them understand the consequences of their actions.

Token Economy

A Token Economy is a system where children earn tokens for desired behaviors. These tokens can later be exchanged for a reward, helping to motivate and reinforce positive behavior.

Verbal Behavior (VB)

Verbal Behavior is a method of teaching language that focuses on the function of words. It helps children understand the purpose of language and how to use it effectively.

Visual Supports

Visual Supports are tools like pictures, schedules, or charts that help children understand and navigate their environment. They are especially useful for children with autism who may benefit from visual cues.

Conclusion

Your dedication and involvement are crucial in helping a child with autism achieve their fullest potential. Understanding these key ABA terms can help you navigate your child’s treatment and communicate with therapists more effectively. By familiarizing yourself with these terms, you are becoming an active participant in your child's therapy.

If you are searching for an ABA therapy provider, please contact us at 866-614-2011 or at info@brighterstridesaba.com.
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Photo by Shravan K Acharya