Applied Behavior Analysis is an applied science that uses the principles based on learning theory of operant and respondent conditioning to meet the behavioral needs of varied individuals. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) aims to improve socially important behavior by using interventions that are based upon principles of learning theory and that have been evaluated in research using reliable and objective measurement. Some of the behavioral techniques used are positive reinforcement and precision teaching. ABA can be used to increase, maintain, decrease, generalize and transfer behaviors. These principles of learning can be used in diverse settings to address a wide variety of needs.

Board Certified Behavior Analyst is someone who has in-depth knowledge of the behavior science. Behavior analysis services help people learn new behaviors, increase or reduce existing behaviors, and teach individuals when to use specific behaviors in particular situations. BCBA stands for “Board Certified Behavior Analyst” and is a credential that began as a state certification in Florida in the 1990s and went national, and subsequently international, in 2000. It provides standards for what constitutes being qualified to practice behavior analysis. A BCBA is a practitioner who can conduct descriptive and systematic behavioral assessments, and develop and supervise behavior analytic interventions.A BCBA teaches others to carry out behavior analytic interventions. A BCBA also supervises those seeking Board Certification assists in implementing interventions in the field.

Applied Behavior Analysis uses researched behavior principles to provide a scope of services ranging from addressing challenging behaviors of an individual person to changing the behavior of an entire organization or community. The United States Surgeon General (1999) concluded, "Thirty years of research demonstrated the efficacy of applied behavioral methods in reducing inappropriate behavior and in increasing communication, learning and appropriate social behavior. The CDC website states that “Behavioral approaches have the most evidence for treating symptoms of ASD”.