ABA Dictionary: A Simple Guide to Understanding Autism Therapy Language

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is one of the most widely used and evidence-based therapies for individuals with autism. But if you’re new to ABA, the language can feel like a world of its own — filled with acronyms, behavioral terms, and data-driven phrases that may sound confusing at first.

This guide breaks down the most common ABA terms and concepts in simple, everyday language, so parents and caregivers can better understand the language of autism therapy and take a more active role in their child’s progress.

A Quick Overview of ABA Therapy

ABA therapy focuses on how behavior works and how it’s affected by the environment. The goal is to teach meaningful skills — such as communication, social interaction, self-help, and academic behaviors — while reducing challenging ones that interfere with learning.

Every ABA program is personalized. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) designs the treatment plan, and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) deliver the sessions under their supervision.

Understanding the key ABA terms below can help you collaborate more effectively with your child’s therapy team and follow strategies consistently at home.

Key ABA Terms Explained

Behavior

In ABA, “behavior” refers to anything a person does that can be observed and measured — from speaking and writing to playing or making eye contact. Understanding behavior is the foundation of ABA.

Antecedent

The event or trigger that happens right before a behavior. For example, a teacher giving an instruction or a child being told “no” are antecedents that may lead to a specific response.

Consequence

What happens immediately after a behavior. Consequences determine whether a behavior is likely to occur again. Reinforcement and punishment both fall under this category.

Reinforcement

Reinforcement increases the likelihood that a behavior will happen again.

• Positive reinforcement: adding something desirable (like praise or a reward).
• Negative reinforcement: removing something unpleasant (like ending a difficult task).

This principle is one of the most effective tools in ABA therapy.

Punishment

In ABA terms, “punishment” doesn’t mean something harsh — it simply means decreasing the likelihood of a behavior happening again. This can involve adding or removing something based on the behavior, but ethical ABA programs focus on positive strategies before using any form of punishment.

Prompt

A prompt is a cue or help given to encourage the correct response. Prompts can be verbal, physical, or visual. Therapists gradually “fade” prompts to help a child become independent.

Fading

Fading means slowly removing prompts or supports as the learner becomes more confident and independent.

Generalization

The ability to apply a learned skill across different settings, people, or situations. For instance, if a child learns to say “hello” at school and also uses it at home, that’s generalization — and it’s a key goal of ABA.

Shaping

Shaping is a method of teaching new skills by reinforcing small steps that lead toward the final desired behavior. For example, teaching a child to say “juice” might start with rewarding any sound they make when they want a drink.

Function of Behavior

Every behavior serves a purpose, such as gaining attention, escaping a task, getting access to something, or seeking sensory input. Identifying the function helps therapists teach more appropriate replacement behaviors.

Data Collection

ABA therapy is highly data-driven. Therapists record data on each behavior or skill to track progress and adjust the program when needed.

Discrete Trial Training (DTT)

A structured teaching method that breaks skills into small, clear steps. Each trial includes an instruction, the child’s response, and a consequence (reinforcement or correction).

Natural Environment Teaching (NET)

Learning that happens in real-life settings rather than structured sessions. For example, teaching a child to request “water” during snack time instead of at a therapy table.

Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)

A detailed plan that identifies challenging behaviors, their triggers, and strategies to reduce them. The BIP helps ensure everyone (therapists, teachers, parents) responds consistently.

Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)

An evaluation process used to identify why specific behaviors occur. It helps guide the development of an effective Behavior Intervention Plan.

The Importance of Learning ABA Terms

Becoming familiar with these ABA therapy terms empowers families to understand their child’s treatment more clearly. It allows better communication with BCBAs and RBTs, ensures consistency between home and therapy, and builds confidence in supporting behavioral progress.

When meeting with ABA providers, understanding these terms also helps you ask more informed questions — from how they measure progress to what types of reinforcement strategies they use.

Find Trusted ABA Providers with ABA Navigator

Choosing the right ABA provider can make all the difference in your child’s growth and comfort. ABA Navigator helps families easily search and compare verified ABA providers based on insurance coverage, location, and available services.

You can explore ABA Navigator’s specialized services, including:

• ABA therapy
• Behavior assessments
• Parent training
• Social skills programs

With ABA Navigator, families can make informed decisions with confidence and connect to providers who fit their unique needs.

Start your search today at ABA Navigator and find the right provider for your child’s journey.

FAQs

What is the main goal of ABA therapy?

The main goal of ABA therapy is to teach meaningful skills and reduce behaviors that interfere with learning or daily life through evidence-based behavioral strategies.

How does reinforcement work in ABA?

Reinforcement encourages positive behavior by adding or removing something that increases the likelihood of that behavior happening again — for example, offering praise or access to a favorite toy after completing a task.

What’s the difference between a BCBA and an RBT?

A BCBA designs and supervises ABA programs, while an RBT implements those programs in daily sessions under the BCBA’s guidance.

Sources:

• https://www.bacb.com/rbt/
• https://www.bacb.com/bcba/
• https://www.psychology.org/resources/bcba-meaning-career-overview/
• https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25197-applied-behavior-analysis