Feature ArticleWhat happens before and after a behavior? A 'not so science-y' approach to behavior |
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ABA goes much deeper than looking at only the behavior itself. In order to promote appropriate behaviors, tackle inappropriate behaviors and develop new ones, it is crucial to look at what happens directly before a behavior, in the ‘ABA world’ called an antecedent, and what happens directly after the behavior, is termed a consequence. The chart below gives an everyday scenario that focuses on the behavior of appropriately asking for a bag of chips. |
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An antecedent is what happens prior to a behavior. In this case, Tommy sees his favorite bag of chips. This in turn leads Tommy to politely ask to buy the bag of chips - the behavior at hand. A consequence follows the behavior - Tommy was bought a bag of chips. Since the parents granted Tommy what he wanted, it is likely that Tommy will in the future ask politely for chips again. Reactions to behaviors are very important because they can reinforce the behavior, meaning the behavior will happen again and again. |
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This is wonderful if we want to see a behavior occur more often, but it is also important to be conscious of accidentally reinforcing an inappropriate behavior. For example, if Tommy started crying and stomping his feet to get his bag of chips and the parents gave him the chips, it is more than likely Tommy is going to cry and stomp his feet in the future to get what he wants. What happens before and after all behaviors is important. |
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Ask your BCBA Supervisor more about antecedents and consequences during your Parent Training meetings! |
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We're ExcitedRainbow ABA will be opening a CENTER in Bloomfield, NJ SOON! Email info@rainbowtherapy.org for more info. Gentle ReminderPlease don't forget to text or call the office with any cancellations (201)-720-8600. Include your child's name and the Behavior Therapist's name. |
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Heavenly Vizcaino, M.S., BCBA Heavenly studied abroad in South Korea for 2 years! Her favorite thing about Rainbow ABA is "Everyone is super supportive and encouraging. It feels like everyone just wants to lift each other up, and it's one of the most amazing work environments I've ever been a part of." Her advice is, "Remember to engage in self-care/self-love; being a superhero is a big job and you deserve some down time.” |
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Samantha Santomo, M.A., BCBA Samantha is originally from Morris County NJ but moved to South Jersey where she started Rainbow ABA's South Jersey branch. Sam has experience working with children 5 years of age to adults 21+. Sam's favorite thing about Rainbow ABA is "the faith the company has in her abilities as a BCBA". Her advice is, "You are the most important teacher your child has! Collaborate with your BCBA, ask questions, and make your sessions as effective as possible for you to succeed." |
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DIY Scavenger HuntIngredients: - Empty clear bottle
- Rice or Sand
- Small objects (ex: pom-poms, crayons, buttons, dice, be creative with this!).
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What to do: Make sure your bottle is empty and dry. Fill the bottle about 3/4 of the way up with rice. While you are filling the bottle with rice, intermittently add your small objects . Your small objects should include things your child will be excited to look for. |
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