What is focused on in applied behavior analysis?

The focus of applied behavior analysis (ABA) is on socially significant behavior change. This means that ABA seeks to effect positive changes in the behaviors that are meaningful and beneficial for individuals within their specific social context. The goal is to improve behaviors that can enhance the individual's quality of life and facilitate their functioning in society.

In ABA, practitioners assess behaviors that have practical importance to the individual, ensuring that interventions lead to improvements in areas that matter to the person, their family, and the community. This emphasis on meaningful behavior change distinguishes ABA from other approaches that might not prioritize the social relevance of the behaviors being targeted. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the core mission of ABA, which is to produce behavior changes that ensure individuals can navigate their environments effectively and improve their overall well-being.