What is Applied Behaviour Analysis?
Applied behaviour analysis (ABA) is the application of the science of learning to understand and improve behaviour that is meaningful to the person and those around them.
ABA can help increase helpful or functional skills (e.g., communication) and/or decrease behaviours that are harmful or interfere with learning (e.g., self-injury).
ABA intervention uses evidence-based procedures such as positive reinforcement to address a client’s concerns and needs and to reduce interfering behaviour and increase desirable behaviour. Behaviour Analysts practice in a variety of settings with many different client populations.
How Does Regulation Protect Me/My Loved One?
From July 1, 2024 onwards, Behaviour Analysts in Ontario are required, by law, to deliver professional services competently and ethically. They must meet rigorous professional entry requirements, adhere to prescribed standards, guidelines, and ethical principles, and participate in quality assurance activities to continually update and improve their knowledge and skill. Complaints and discipline processes hold professionals accountable when a client, or other member of the public, believes that the standards may have been breached.
If you have a concern about a service you have received from a Behaviour Analyst, you can file a complaint with the College. To learn more about the complaints process, please visit our website: https://cpbao.ca/public/complaints-reports-to-the-college/#making-a-complaint
The Regulation Resource Task Force of the Ontario Association for Behaviour Analysis (ONTABA) has published several resources for practitioners and the public here.
For more information about applied behaviour analysis, visit: