*3.10.1. Purpose of the technique*

The purpose of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is to teach discrete skills by modifying the environment in order to manipulate behavior [79]. To teach these skills, therapists utilize the "ABC technique" to determine why a behavior is occurring: *antecedent*, *behavior*, *consequence* [63]. Antecedent refers to what is happening prior to the behavior. The *antecedent* prompts the behavior to occur. The *behavior* is what the child does in response to a stimulus (antecedent). Finally, the *consequence* is what the child receives as a response to the behavior. The consequence can perpetuate or extinguish the behavior. Once therapists have determined the "ABC," then they can create a structured plan that addresses each component to create an optimal outcome.
