Back to Basics: Why Understanding the "Why" Matters in ABA
In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), we often focus on the "how." How to teach a child to request, how to reduce challenging behaviors, how to structure a learning environment. And that's important. But sometimes, in our rush to implement effective strategies, we might inadvertently skip over a crucial step: truly understanding why a behavior is happening.
Think of it like building a house. You can assemble the walls and roof according to the blueprint, but if you don't understand the principles of structural engineering, your house might not withstand the first strong wind.
In ABA, the "structural engineering" is a deep understanding of the basic principles of behavior – reinforcement, motivation, extinction, punishment and stimulus control. These principles are the bedrock upon which all effective ABA interventions are built.
When certified behavior analysts, such as Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs), International Behavior Analysts (IBAs), Qualified Behavior Analysts (QBAs) and so on, have a solid grasp of these principles, they're better equipped to:
- Conduct thorough functional assessments: truly understanding the environmental factors that are influencing behavior.
- Develop individualized interventions: creating strategies that are precisely tailored to the unique needs of each learner.
- Promote generalization and maintenance: ensuring that learned skills are used across different settings and over time.
- Adapt when things don't go as planned: modifying interventions in-the-moment based on a deep understanding of the core behavioral principles and processes.
Sometimes, the path to certification can feel like a race to learn specific techniques and interventions. But it's essential to remember that ABA is more than just a collection of strategies. It's a science.
So, let's encourage a renewed focus on the basics. For certified behavior analysts, this might mean revisiting the foundational texts, engaging in continuing education focused on principles, and seeking mentorship from experienced behavior analysts. For those training to become certified behavior analysts, it means prioritizing a deep understanding of the science alongside the practical application.
By strengthening our understanding of the "why," we can ensure that our ABA interventions are not only effective but also truly aligned with the principles of behavior, leading to better outcomes for the individuals we serve.
Here are some foundational texts that we think all certified behavior analysts should read:
- The Behavior of Organisms by B.F. Skinner.
- Principles of Psychology by Keller and Schoenfeld.
- Science and Human Behavior (S&HB) by B.F. Skinner.
- Verbal Behavior by B.F. Skinner.
- About Behaviorism by B.F. Skinner.
- Conceptual papers by Jack Michael.