What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

It is a method to enable individuals with Autism/Autism Spectrum Disorder to function effectively.

It is recognized by the Singapore Ministry of Health, with the highest level of recommendation (Grade A) and highest level of evidence (Level 1++).  (Source: AMS-MOH Clinical Practice Guideline 1/2010). Details here.

It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the US Surgeon General for autism.

It has 50 years of clinical proof of effectiveness.

How does ABA help in autism?

ABA improves skills in multiple learning domains:

• Language and Communication
• Cognition and Perception
• Social and Play Skills
• Classroom Group behavior
• Motor skills
• Self-help independence

ABA reduces tantrums and behavior problems:

• tantrums and excessive crying
• aggression and injurious behavior
• lack of compliance
• inattention and rigidity
• self-stimulation and sensory issues

How is ABA done?

Each skill to be learned is broken down into manageable units so that each part can be taught effectively.  This is done through discrete trials, where each unit of behavior is taught to mastery.  Then learned units are put together to form more complex behavior.

Behavior excesses (behaviors that need to be decreased eg. tantrums) or behavior deficits (behaviors that need to be increased eg. eye contact) are managed to enable the individual to function effectively.  This is done through positive reinforcement.

A comprehensive assessment is first done to determine the child’s skill level and behavior deficits and excesses.  Then, an individualized ABA program is created based on the assessment.

ABA sessions involve teaching each unit of behavior.  Data from each trial is recorded and analyzed to determine progress.

As the child learns each skill, he/she then progresses through his/her individualized program to learn more complex behaviors.

What are the results of ABA?

ABC Center results are consistent with 50 years of extensive scientific clinical data.

All children make progress.

100% of children are effectively communicating their wants and needs within one year, either vocally and/or by PECS or sometimes ASL (American Sign Language).

90% are eventually transitioned to either a mainstream or special education school.

If ABA is started at an early age, a significant number is transitioned to regular school with same age peers.

View our detailed clinical results here.

Do all centers who provide ABA have equal effectiveness?

Not all ABA providers have the same level of expertise.  Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA’s) are required to ensure that the child’s program is properly designed, and that staff are properly trained and supervised.

In all of Singapore, ABC is the only center with four Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) on site.

ABC Center’s Clinical Director, Ms Hui Ling Loh, has the most number of years’ experience as a BCBA among all the BCBAs  who reside in Singapore. 

The Behavior Analysts Certification Board (BACB) is the only certification board for Behavior Analysts globally.

To become a BCBA, one must have, at minimum, a Master’s Degree in the field, plus many years of clinical experience, and must pass a stringent board certification exam.

ABC is globally committed to provide the most effective ABA program for each
child in our care.