Applied Behavioral Analysis, commonly referred to as "ABA" is simply the study and application of behavioral principles, to everyday situations, that will, over time, increase or decrease targeted behaviors. ABA has been used to help individuals acquire many different skills, such as language or communication skills, self-help skills, and play skills. These principles can also help to decrease behaviors such as aggression, self-stimulatory behaviors, and self-injury. 

Behavior Analysts primarily observe the environment in which the idividual may be displaying "problem" behaviors in order to better understand the learning, social or emotional challenges that may "trigger" the problem behavior(s). After such observations, an analyst will develop a personalized behavior program, which establishes techniques to  provide training to family members, caregivers or staff, so they can be an active participant and help reinforce the skills developed during therapy sessions.