Frequently Asked Questions:

What is ABA?
Cooper, Heron, and Heward (1987) define ABA as follows: "Applied behavior analysis is the science in which procedures derived from the principles of behavior are systematically applied to improve socially significant behavior to a meaningful degree and to demonstrate experimentally that the procedures employed were responsible for the improvement in behavior." (p. 14)

• In Baer, Wolf, and Risley (1968), the authors examined seven dimensions of Applied Behavior Analysis, these dimensions still hold true today.
  • Applied: The work of an applied behavior analyst must address problems important to "man and society rather than theory".
  • Behavioral: Applied behavior analysis must be pragmatic and address measurable behavior
  • Analytic: Applied behavior analysis attempts to address the maintaining variables of behavior (observed directly or systematically identified)
  • Technological: The techniques used in applied behavior analysis are completely identified and described.
  • Conceptual system: The procedures used by an applied behavior analyst are both technologically precise and can be explained in behavioral terms.
  • Effective: Successful application of applied behavior analysis technology has practical value.
  • Generality: Applied behavior analysis uses techniques and procedures that produce lasting change in behavior that occurs in varied settings
• Howard Sloane's "What Is Behavior Analysis?"

Who can benefit from BSOTR’s services?
Children and adults diagnosed or struggling with: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Challenging behaviors, Language Delays, Dual-diagnosis, Uncooperative behaviors or learning difficulties, Developmental delays, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Personality/Conduct Disorders, Down Syndrome/ Fragile X, Acquired/Traumatic Brain Injury, Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, Social Skills deficits, Developmental disabilities, and language delays. Parents, caregivers, and staff supporting these individuals can also benefit from our services.

What types of organizations does BSOTR serve?
We have provided help for all of the following: parents and foster parents, host home providers, PCA’s, group homes, treatment and education facilities, providers and clinics, private and public schools, residential providers, community day programs, service provider organizations, community centered boards, geriatric care facilities, occupational therapists, physicians and psychiatrists, speech-language pathologists, physical therapists, vocational rehabilitation, advocacy organizations, ICFMR reigional centers, respite providers, crisis management teams, and churches providing support to individuals in need.