Definition
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the branch of behavior science that uses operant principles — antecedents, behavior, consequences, reinforcement, and extinction — to produce socially significant behavior change.
In practice, ABA covers everything from teaching communication and life skills to reducing dangerous behavior. Services are billed under CPT codes 97151–97158 in the United States and are typically delivered by a credentialed team: a BCBA or BCaBA designs the plan, an RBT implements direct treatment under supervision.
ABA is evidence-based for autism intervention but is also used in organizational behavior management, education, and rehabilitation.