A consequence refers to any event or response that follows a behavior. In ABA, consequences are not inherently “good” or “bad”—they are functional. What matters is whether the consequence increases or decreases the likelihood of the behavior repeating.

Most ABA programs focus on positive reinforcement, meaning they add something desirable (attention, praise, access to a preferred item) after a desired behavior to strengthen it. Consequences can also include neutral prompts or corrections when a behavior is incorrect, but modern ABA avoids punitive or aversive methods.

Understanding consequences helps therapists systematically shape behavior by reinforcing skills that support a child’s independence, communication, and daily functioning.

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• A child says “juice, please,” and immediately receives juice (increasing appropriate requesting).
  
• A child hits when they want a toy, and the toy is taken away (reducing hitting over time if alternative skills are taught).
• A therapist provides praise and a token after a successful task completion.

Consequences are the most powerful drivers of learning. When used appropriately, they help children master new skills, communicate effectively, and navigate daily routines with more success and less frustration.

By intentionally structuring consequences, therapists ensure that helpful behaviors increase while challenging behaviors are replaced with appropriate alternatives.

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