Discrete Trial Training is a procedure (sometimes referred to as the Lovaas Method) which is based on the fundamental principles of applied behavior analysis (i.e. reinforcement, three-term contingency, prompting, etc.). During DTT: 1) a discriminative stimulus is presented, 2) a response occurs or is 3) prompted to occur (e.g. teacher points to the correct picture card), 4) a consequence is delivered (e.g. token or preferred item), and then 5) the instructor pauses before presenting the next instructional demand, also referred to as inter-trial interval (Anderson, Taras, & O’Malley-Cannon, 1996; Dib & Sturmey, 2007; Smith, 2001, 2007; Zager, 2005). ABA is a methodology, guided by the seven dimensions, rather than a particular teaching procedure or intervention.

ABA is a methodology which is often used with children; particularly children on the autism spectrum. Early Intervention is essential. Factors such as an early diagnosis, intensity and type of treatments selected can impact improvement. There is emerging information in the medical community (neurologists) suggesting that before the age of 3, a child's brain is more receptive to creating new neurological connections. However, this should not be viewed as the only "teachable" moments in a child's life. Applied Behavior Analysis techniques have been effectively applied to numerous cases (stroke patients, neuro-typical children and adults, etc.) well beyond the early stages of childhood as well as outside the realm of ASD.

ABA is most well known as a treatment use with autistic individuals. However, it is a science whose applications extend well beyond a single subset of the population. The seven dimensions listed on this site are the criteria for which an effective ABA practitioner bases decisions upon. ABA is a methodology which is not aligned with any specific treatment and therefore is not limited to servicing only individuals with a specific diagnosis such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). ABA has been used effectively with a multitude of disorders and disabilities as well as aiding in acquisition of academic skills, smoking cessation, and other socially relevant of humans as well as across species applications.

A common misconception, particularly in public school settings, are that ABA services are designed for focusing exclusively on challenging behaviors (i.e. self-injurious behaviors, aggressive behaviors, etc.). Behavior Analysts consider (and define) behavior to be any observable and measurable action, which is inclusive of academic behaviors (i.e. writing, computing math problems, learning to read, spell). Behavior analysts understand how to arrange the environment, program specific schedules of reinforcement, an to set the occasion for behaviors to be reinforced in the natural environment. Behavior analysts decisions are data-driven.

Typically, Board Certified Behavior Analysts serve as consultants and program managers who consult to educators or caregivers. Behavior analysts often assume responsibility for supervising technicians who provide direct treatment to clients. Behavior Analysts are trained individuals who are qualified to assess, design, and oversee the implementation of behavioral programming. Behavior Analysts often serve as coordinator of behavioral programming and collaborator on functional communication for clients in conjunction with Speech and Language Pathologists.

Each individual's experiences and education differ from one another as does their ability to apply these skills to the populations they serve. All clinicians (Behavior Analysts included) should be evaluated on an individual basis. Refer to the most recent copy of the Behavior Analyst Certification Board [BACB]'s website for a current list of items a competent Behavior Analyst should be able to demonstrate proficiently. Of additional interest may also be the Ethics Codes for Behavior Analysts. Consumers of ABA can request information about a Behavior Analyst’s training and experience to determine if they are the best fit for the situation.

ABA is not restricted to one environmental area. On the contrary, Applied Behavior Analysis is inherently concerned with individuals' ability to generalize information; which is often accomplished by varying the location and manner in which skills are taught. While it may be common for some activities to occur at a desk or table-top it is typically due to one of two reasons...1) the skill requires a table-top for easy manipluation of objects and/or for skills which require "school attending" behavior or 2) the program is implemented by someone with superficial understanding of ABA.

While it is not uncommon to offer training to students or others who provide direct service (often in a discrete-trial teaching format) there is incredible danger designing procedures without a comprehensive understanding of ABA principles. It is recommended by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board that the Behavior Analyst designs and supervises behavior analytic interventions. The analyst should be able to effectively develop and implement appropriate assessment and intervention methods for use in familiar situations and for a range of cases. It is a common (and highly encouraged) practice for Behavior Analysts to collaborate with other members of an interdisciplinary team. Whenever a medical issue arises, Behavior Analysts ensure a proper referral is made to the appropriate medical professional.

The statement that “ABA is harmful” is as accurate as saying science or medicine are harmful. Rather, it is likely more useful to think about it in terms of the “practice” or “malpractice” and in this case of ABA. Finding ways to improve the quality of life for our clients is hardly problematic, however the way in which we engage in these practices absolutely matter and can have an intense impact on the clients and families we support. ABA can be a positive and powerful approach when applied properly. Naturally, as scientists and practitioners we must commit to continually growing and evolving our practices, seeking feedback each step of the way. This includes questioning our approach, refining our practices, including clients in their programming and responding to their desires and concerns.