Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a scientific discipline that derives from the understanding of complex relationships between the environment and behavior. It aims to address problems that are of social importance through extensively researched techniques. These techniques or behavior principles are used to bring positive behavior change. In particular, to the population with developmental disabilities, the principles may be observed in the following examples:

• A structured environment that is conducive to improving the client's abilities and encourages caregiver's consistency in implementing interventions.
• An individualized treatment plan that focuses on replacement of inappropriate behavior(s) with functionally-equivalent behaviors that are developmentally appropriate for the client. In other words, increase appropriate behavior and decrease problem behavior.
• Individualized programs that target skill deficits and build social, meaningful, and functional skills that are important to the client and family members (e.g., communication, social, daily living, and motor skills).