What you'll learn

Course Description This course introduces students to the principles and applications of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) in therapeutic and educational settings. It focuses on understanding behavior, assessing functional relationships, and designing evidence-based interventions. Students gain practical exposure to behavior modification techniques used with individuals across the lifespan. Ethical considerations and professional standards in ABA practice are also emphasized. Learning Outcomes 1. Students will understand core concepts and terminology of Applied Behavior Analysis. 2. They will be able to observe, measure, and analyze behavior using ABA methods. 3. Students will design basic behavior intervention strategies based on functional assessment. 4. They will demonstrate awareness of ethical practices and responsible application of ABA therapy.

  • Reinforcement (positive & negative), Punishment and ethical considerations, Extinction, shaping, chaining, Generalization and maintenance of behavior, Schedules of reinforcement, Motivation and motivating operations (MO/EO)
  • Observation methods and data collection, • Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA), ABC (Antecedent–Behavior–Consequence) model, Identifying target behaviors, Baseline assessment and progress monitoring, Reliability, validity, and data accuracy in ABA
  • Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP), Prompting and fading techniques, Skill acquisition programs, Managing challenging behaviors, Task analysis and individualized program planning, Positive Behavior Support (PBS) strategies
  • Definition, scope, and history of ABA, Key concepts: behavior, environment, learning, Basic assumptions of behaviorism, Applications of ABA in education, therapy, and rehabilitation
  • ABA in autism, special education, and inclusive settings,Role of ABA therapist and multidisciplinary collaboration, Ethical guidelines and professional conduct, Family involvement and caregiver training, Documentation, reporting, and professional communication, Case studies and role-play practice

Dr. Ritu Mehta
Assistant Professor

Faculty Name: Dr. Ritu Mehta Faculty Designation: Assistant Professor Faculty UID: 32572 Faculty Department: Psychology Dr. Ritu Mehta is currently working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology, School of Liberal &Creative Arts at Lovely Professional University. She has done Ph.D. in Psychology. She has 4-year experience as a Clinical Psychologist dealing with different kinds of counselling and assessments. She is a certified CBT and Mindfulness practitioner. She also has teaching experience of 3.5 years at BhagatPuran Singh Collage of Special Education, All India Pingalwara Charitable Society.