Behavior analysis is the scientific study of behavior.  Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA is the most recognized and widely accepted evidenced-based practice for treating Autism Spectrum Disorder that is safe, effective, and has proven results.  ABA is the application of the principles of learning and motivation from Behavior Analysis, and the procedure and technology derived from those principles, to the solution of problems of social significance.  Several decades of research have validated the treatments based on ABA.

Applied behavior analysis is the process of systematically applying interventions based upon the principles of learning theory to improve socially significant behaviors to a meaningful degree, and to demonstrate that the interventions employed are responsible for the improvement in behavior (Baer, Wolf & Risley, 1968; Sulzer-Azaroff & Mayer, 1991).