The Effect of Applied Behavior Analysis on Decreasing Aggression in Students with Autism

Principal Investigator:
Meghan Banach

Faculty Advisor:
James McLaughlin

Abstract:
The research on the ABA methods, that are effective in decreasing aggression, need to be more specific and thorough in regard to the various strategies being used. Research shows that ABA can be used to change behavior but there is not enough information about the effectiveness of the specific ABA strategies being used to reduce aggression in students. There is a lack of research on the specific ABA methodologies that reduce aggressive behaviors in students with autism. This study examines teachers in a local school district to assess their experiences with ABA methodologies. The purpose of this study is to investigate and record teachers’ experiences when using ABA methodologies to reduce aggression and procedures used in autism classrooms that are deemed most effective. The teachers who qualify and give consent will participate in a survey. The researcher will analyze the data from the survey and report if their hypothesis was supported.