Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)


Pacific Child and Family Associates embrace a behavior analytic approach to treatment. According to Baer, Wolf, and Risley's (1968): "Applied Behavior Analysis is the process of systematically applying interventions based upon the principles of learning theory to improve socially significant behavior to a meaningful degree". A distinguishing characteristic of Applied Behavior Analysis is the emphasis on the demonstration of the relationship between treatment interventions and socially significant behavioral change.

The United States Surgeon David Satcher, MD, PhD, has endorsed intensive behavioral intervention for individuals with autism. A Report of the Surgeon General states: "Thirty years of research demonstrated the efficacy of applied behavioral methods in reducing inappropriate behavior and in increasing communication, learning, and appropriate social behavior". Applied Behavior Analysis, to date, is the only proven practice and the only methodology endorsed by the Surgeon General and currently covered by insurance.

Over the past 50 years, thousands of published studies have documented the effectiveness of ABA for addressing skill deficits and behavioral excesses.


Our Behavior Analytic Approach

The Pacific Child and Family Associates staff uses diverse assessment methods to understand the strengths and the needs of each individual. We use assessment tools such as:

•  Verbal Behavior Milestones and Placement Program (VB-MAPP)
•  Hawaii Early Learning Profile (HELP)
•  Development Assessment of Young Children (DAYC)
•  Functional Behavioral Assessment protocols

Subsequently, we use the most effective instructional format(s) to teach functional and meaningful skills, for example:

•  Activity-Based Instruction (ABI)
•  Pivotal Response Training (PRT)
•  Applied Verbal Behavior (AVB)
•  Discrete Trail Training (DTT)

Finally, we evaluate all changes against the standards of a behavioral cusp. More to the point, the staff from PCFA working tirelessly until each individual achieves the following outcomes:

1. Each individual will come in contact with new reinforcers
2. Each individual will come in contact with new contingencies
3. Each person will access new and different environments
4. Each person will develop new functional and serviceable behaviors
5. The skills we teach will compete with aberrant forms of behavior
6. Each individual's behavior change will positively impact the person's immediate and local community
7. The people in each person's life will view the changes as relevant and work to maintain all positive change

For more information regarding our ABA for autism services, please email us or call us toll free at (855) 295-3276. We are currently able to provide services in English, Spanish, French, German, Korean, Vietnamese and Armenian.


  
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