Rainy River District School Board
522 Second St. E, Fort Frances, Ontario P9A 1N4
Phone: (807) 274-9855
7 Dimensions of
Applied Behaviour Analysis
Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) is an effective approach to understanding and changing behaviour, and teaching new
skills by examining the relationship between the environment and behaviour (Ontario Ministry of Education, 2007). It is
comprised of 7 interconnected dimensions/components and is the systematic application of behavioural principles
designed to change socially significant behaviours to a meaningful degree. These 7 foundational dimensions of ABA were
first outlined in 1968 in Baer, Wolf, and Risley’s article “Some Current Dimensions of Applied Behaviour Analysis”. The
article continues to remain relevant and is the foundation of what quality ABA programs are based on. All interventions
that are provided through ABA services should encompass all 7 of the dimensions to ensure that interventions put in place
are supported by research, are socially significant, and are monitored for effectiveness. Without all 7 dimensions, ABA
programs are considered incomplete and potentially compromised in their effectiveness.
The following 7 dimensions of ABA are the defining characteristics for ABA:
APPLIED
Goals and interventions are selected because they are socially significant to the individual and/or caregiver(s). What is
important to the individual should be directly related to the goal of the program, and the anticipated outcome of the
behaviour change should enhance and improve the quality of life for the individual and caregiver(s).
BEHAVIOURAL
The behaviour selected to change must be both observable and measurable; therefore, it must be quantifiable. It should
focus on what the individual is DOING or needs to DO, not what they are thinking and feeling.
ANALYTIC
Interventions are selected based on collected data. Ongoing data monitoring is essential to ensure strategy effectiveness
(consistent progress) or to determine if modifications to the intervention is needed.
TECHNOLOGICAL
Procedures and strategies are outlined in detail (clearly and concisely), allowing for others to read them and then
implement accurately.
CONCEPTUALLY SYSTEMATIC
Procedures are described in terms of relevant ABA principles and relate to the research supported behaviour analytic
concept (positive reinforcement, prompting methods, shaping, errorless teaching, etc.).
GENERALITY
Positive behaviour change and learned skills are maintained over time and can be demonstrated in different settings, with
different people, and under a variety of contexts.
EFFECTIVE
Rainy River District School Board
