Applied Behavior Analysis: What It Is and What It Isn't
Bobby Newman, Ph.D., BCBA, Room to
Grow
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a field that many people talk
about. They often play fast and loose with the language, however,
equating the science with one of its many techniques (Discrete
Trial Teaching, for example). In this talk, the essential elements
of Applied Behavior Analysis will be outlined and discussed. It
will be established that Applied Behavior Analysis is a science,
not a specific technique or techniques for teaching. What
distinguishes that science from other treatments will be
explored.
Dr. Bobby Newman is a licensed psychologist and Board Certified
Behavior Analyst. Bobby received his Ph.D. from the City University
of New York. He is the Past-President of the Association for
Science in Autism Treatment, as well as the New York State
Association for Behavior Analysis. His past books include The
Reluctant Alliance, No Virtue in Accident, When Everybody Cares,
Words from Those Who Care, Graduated Applied Behavior Analysis,
Behaviorspeak, and Behaviorask. He has published
numerous research articles in The Analysis of Verbal Behavior,
Behavioral Disorders, Education and Training Mental Retardation,
The Behavior Analyst, The Psychological Record, Behavior and Social
Issues, Perceptual and Motor Skills, and elsewhere. He has
been honored by several parent and professional organizations for
his work, including having an award named in his honor by FEAT of
Central New York. Bobby provides regular training and consultation
to programs all over New York, as well as Ireland, Northern
Ireland, England, and Canada. Bobby has written many articles on
behavior analysis for popular magazines and has been the host of
two radio call-in shows.