Progressive ABA: How Applied Behaviour Analysis has Evolved
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) has evolved significantly since its establishment, moving away from rigid methodologies towards a more individualised, dynamic approach called Progressive ABA.
This method incorporates evidence-based strategies while emphasising flexibility, compassion, and holistic care. But what exactly is Progressive ABA, and how does it differ from traditional ABA? Let’s explore….
What is Progressive ABA?
Progressive ABA refers to a modernised form of Applied Behaviour Analysis, characterised by its focus on adaptability and individualised support. While traditional ABA often adheres to strict behaviour modification techniques, Progressive ABA incorporates broader strategies that account for the unique needs, emotions, and preferences of the individual receiving services.
This approach still utilises the core principles of ABA, such as reinforcement, but with a greater emphasis on relationship-building, self-advocacy, and collaborative problem-solving. Progressive ABA recognises that no two individuals are the same, and a one-size-fits-all approach isn’t effective for everyone.
Key Features of Progressive ABA
- Person-Centered Planning: In Progressive ABA, the individual is at the centre of the intervention planning. Therapists collaborate with clients (and their families) to understand personal goals, preferences and strengths. By prioritising personal values, this promotes more meaningful and sustainable behaviour change.
- Focus on Functional Skills: Progressive ABA emphasises teaching skills that improve an individual’s quality of life. Whether it’s communication, social interaction, or daily living skills, interventions are designed to foster independence. Rather than focusing solely on reducing problematic behaviours, Progressive ABA helps individuals develop skills that enhance their autonomy.
- Flexibility and Adaptation: Progressive ABA is very adaptable. Therapists adjust strategies based on real-time data, the client’s emotional state, and feedback from family or caregivers. This fluid, responsive method is in stark contrast to more rigid, traditional approaches.
- Collaboration with Other Disciplines: Progressive ABA often works alongside other therapeutic models, such as occupational therapy or speech therapy, to ensure a holistic approach to treatment. By integrating insights from various fields, ABA therapists can offer a more comprehensive and balanced support system.
- Ethical Considerations: Ethical treatment is a foundation of Progressive ABA. This approach emphasises transparency, and the dignity of the individual. For example, interventions that involve aversive techniques or punishment are not used, while positive reinforcement and empathy are central to behaviour change.
Why is Progressive ABA Important?
Progressive ABA is important because it reflects a deeper understanding of human behaviour. As we learn more about neurodiversity and individual differences, it’s crucial to adopt approaches that respect these variations rather than attempting to “normalise” behaviour. Progressive ABA recognises that behaviours are not inherently “good” or “bad” but exist within the context of an individual’s environment, history, and emotional needs.
By taking a progressive stance, ABA therapists aim to promote self-regulation, emotional resilience, and functional communication, ultimately helping individuals lead more fulfilling, independent lives.
Who Benefits from This?:
Progressive ABA supports a wide range of individuals, including those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental disabilities, ADHD, and other diagnoses requiring behavioural interventions and skill development. This is particularly beneficial for children aged 2 to 12, where early intervention can have a significant impact on development.
For younger children (ages 2 to 5), Progressive ABA helps build critical skills like communication, social engagement, and emotional regulation, tailored to each child’s strengths and needs. This child-centered approach encourages expression, interaction, and adaptability, laying a strong foundation for future growth.
As children grow older (ages 6 to 12), Progressive ABA continues to foster essential life skills like classroom readiness, problem-solving, and independence, helping children succeed academically and socially.
Families and caregivers also benefit from the open communication and collaborative nature of Progressive ABA, actively participating in treatment planning to achieve long-term, meaningful outcomes. This comprehensive, compassionate approach not only supports the child’s emotional resilience and independence but also enhances the family’s overall well-being.
A Case for Compassionate ABA
In recent years, ABA has faced criticism, particularly from the autistic community, for its historical emphasis on compliance and normalisation. Progressive ABA offers a compassionate alternative, where the goal is not to change the individual’s inherent nature but to support them in achieving personal goals and thriving within their own context. Rather than viewing behaviours as “maladaptive,” it instead seeks to understand their function and find positive, supportive ways to address them. This shift in perspective is crucial for creating ethical, respectful treatment plans.
Conclusion
Progressive ABA is paving the way for a more compassionate, person-centered approach to behaviour therapy. By emphasising adaptability, collaboration, and the dignity of the individual, it challenges outdated practices and sets a new standard for ethical, effective ABA interventions.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or therapist, understanding and embracing the principles of Progressive ABA can transform how we support individuals in developing skills, autonomy, and emotional well-being.
Join us in rethinking traditional methods to create a more inclusive, empathetic future for behaviour analysis.
By:
Ciana Cripps – Positive Behaviour Support & ABA Therapy Practitioner
If you’d like to find out more about One Central Health, give us a call today on (08) 9344 1318.
