Applied behavior analysis is based on seven core concepts. These concepts are known as the seven dimensions of ABA. Any ABA service uses these following characteristics in some way.

1. Generalization

ABA helps people to use things they learn during therapy in a variety of settings, with different people, and in new ways, so they can be more successful in their daily lives.

2. Effective

ABA therapy aims to provide effective services. Even if an intervention doesn’t work, ABA therapists will continue working with you to find something that will.

3. Technological

ABA intervention plans are typically developed in a clear and concise manner so that the intervention is understandable and can be implemented accurately by more than one person. This helps to ensure that an intervention is effective (or if it’s not working, then it can be modified to make it more likely that your child will accomplish their goals throughout ABA therapy).

4. Applied

ABA focuses on socially significant behaviors. This means that ABA therapists collaborate with you on identifying goals to work on that are meaningful and important to your child.

5. Conceptually Systematic

ABA therapy is based on the science of behavior, which is basically the collection of ideas that helps us to understand the way in which people act and how they learn and change.

6. Analytic

ABA services are based on data, which helps services to be more effective.

7. Behavioral

ABA focuses on behavior which is basically anything that a person does or how they act. ABA can also address a person’s internal behaviors or their thoughts and emotions, as well.

Ask your child's ABA therapist how these 7 concepts are involved in your child's therapy plans or how they can be worked in to their future plans. Communication is key in helping in your child's therapy goals.