- About the School of Social Work
What Is Applied Behavior Analysis?
Applied Behavior Analysis involves the application of behavioral principles to produce socially significant changes in behavior. Practitioners use direct assessments, research evidence, and single-subject research designs to inform and evaluate interventions designed to increase behavior (e.g., social skills) or decrease behavior (e.g., smoking).
Client populations served include children, adolescents, adults and older adults. Applied Behavior Analysis approaches may involve services for a full spectrum of mental health difficulties, including and especially pervasive developmental disorders.
Other areas of practice include work with communities and with organizations. Behavior analysts may also work independently or in agency/organizational settings.