Behavior Analysts provide services to a variety of individuals with many different needs. Behavior analysis can be used to implement skill deficiency (day-to-day activities, communication, etc.) as well as maladaptive behaviors (aggression, self-injury, etc.).
The initial stage is a functional behavior assessment. In this stage we identify the behavior of concern and determine the function of the behavior (why the behavior is occuring). In ABA there are 4 functions: escape/avoidance, to gain access to something, to get attention, or sensory stimulation. This assessment may be done through direct observation of the individual, interview like questions with the individual or care giver, or through a functional assessment in which the antecedent and consequences are manipulated to better understand the behavior.
Once the function of the behavior is understood, the behavior analyst can begin gathering and analyzing data, writing behavior plans, training individuals, and implementing treatment.