ADHD, Autism, Education, Mental Health Research / 08.07.2025
The 7 Keys of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): A Comprehensive Guide
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach to understanding and improving human behavior. It is widely used in clinical, educational, and organizational settings, with proven success in helping individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. While ABA is a broad field, its foundation is built upon a set of essential guiding principles — often referred to as the 7 Dimensions of ABA.
Originally introduced by Baer, Wolf, and Risley in 1968, these dimensions represent the gold standard for what qualifies as effective and ethical ABA practice. In this article, we’ll explore these 7 keys of ABA in depth, explain their significance, and show how they work together to promote meaningful behavior change.
Table of Contents
- What Are the 7 Keys of ABA?
- 1. Applied
- 2. Behavioral
- 3. Analytic
- 4. Technological
- 5. Conceptually Systematic
- 6. Effective
- 7. Generality
- Why These Dimensions Matter
- Applying the 7 Keys in Real Life
- Conclusion
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an evidence-based treatment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders. ABA therapy is a personalized treatment plan that focuses on improving behavior, social interaction, and more, simultaneously focusing on the person’s strengths and weaknesses. For this reason, it is crucial to plan the treatment effectively. While the treatment itself has been groundbreaking, it does come with a set of challenges. This article explores the challenges of ABA treatment planning with practical solutions.