One of top priorities of the California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) is to provide individualized care tailored to the unique needs, goals, and life circumstances of each participant. To that end, DDS has access to a broad range of therapy supports and modalities. Two important modes of behavioral support are Applied Behavior Analysis (“ABA”) and Positive Behavior Support (“PBS”). While both are evidence-based approaches used to improve behavior and learning for individuals with developmental disabilities, there are also key differences. Understanding the differences in behavioral supports—ABA vs. Positive Behavior Support—is vital for selecting the type of care best for you or your loved one.

What is ABA?

Applied Behavior Analysis focuses on understanding how behavior works and how it is affected by a person’s environment. Specifically, ABA uses data-driven strategies to teach new skills and reduce challenging or problematic behaviors.

Techniques within this mode of therapy often include breaking tasks into smaller steps and reinforcing desired behaviors. Throughout, care providers keep careful track of each person’s progress.

All in all, ABA is highly structured and goal-oriented. It is often used in one-on-one therapy settings, and is particularly effective at improving communication, social, and self-care skills.

What is PBS?

Positive Behavior Support tends to deliver a broader approach that is both person-centered and systems-based. Put simply, rather than focus on behavior change, PBS looks at why behaviors occur. That analysis then allows care providers to determine how to make a person’s environment more supportive. In addition to making adjustments to the environment, PBS also teaches developmentally disabled individuals key coping skills. Ultimately, the goal is to prevent problem behavior before it occurs.

Key Differences Between ABA and PBS

ABA is often seen as a clinical therapy for teaching and modifying individual behaviors, while PBS is a comprehensive framework focused on long-term support, self-determination, and community participation. Both are backed by clinical evidence, and both are deployed throughout the DDS system.

Talk with your regional care center to determine which mode of therapy is best for you or your loved one.