Definition: ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) is a treatment for children with autism spectrum disorders. ABA begins with intensive skill training based on a reward system (sometimes called "discrete trials"). More advanced ABA includes practice of skills in a natural setting. ABA for very young children is play-based and more developmental in style.
ABA is the oldest and most fully researched of any autism treatment. It is sometimes considered problematic because it is so intensive (up to 40 hours a week) and can be so expensive. Some parents feel that ABA can produce "robotic" behaviors, though the experts at the Lovaas Institute (the developer and premiere provider of ABA) claim that "robotic" behavior is really the result of improper training.
Also Known As: Lovaas; Discrete Trials
Alternate Spellings: Applied Behavioral Analysis
