Although an increasingly diagnosed developmental disorder among children, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has no known cure. However, there is treatment, and the consensus among experts, parents, and teachers is that the most effective treatment is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
One of the first definitions of ABA remains the best. According to a 1968 paper written by Baer, Wolf, & Risley, “Applied Behavior Analysis is the process of systematically applying interventions based upon the principles of learning theory to improve socially significant behaviors to a meaningful degree, and to demonstrate that the interventions employed are responsible for the improvement in behavior.” As with just about anything relating to autism, the specific techniques are constantly evolving.
Fortunately, hundreds of helpful ABA books have been written. The following 30 books on ABA are written by:
Featured Programs
- behavior analysts
- teachers
- parents
These are the best ABA books based on such factors as:
- Amazon sales and ratings
- Barnes and Noble sales and ratings
- awards and honors
- use as a textbook
These books highlight some of the skills applied behavior analysis professionals need to be successful working with children and adults on the autism spectrum.
If you are wondering about verbal behavior, functional behavior assessment, ethical and professional responsibilities, socially important behavior, or analyzing behavior change, you may find help in one of the books listed.
See Also: Best Books on Mental Health
101 Games and Activities for Children with Autism, Asperger’s and Sensory Processing Disorders (McGraw-Hill, 2009)
Tara Delaney
While most books for care givers of autistic children focus on improving motor, language, or social skills, this book by Tara Delaney offers myriad ideas for something just as important: play. This applied behavioral analysis book is full of tips and suggestions for interactive games that are easy to learn and perfect for either indoor or outdoor playtime. Through these games, children with autism can learn stay focused, make eye contact, improve important skills like verbal behavior and practice interacting with others.
ISBN-10: 0071623361
ISBN-13: 9780071623360
See Also: Top 20 Online Masters in Educational Psychology Programs
101 Ways to Do ABA!: Practical and Amusing Positive Behavioral Tips for Implementing Applied Behavior Analysis Strategies in Your Home, Classroom, and in Your Community (CreateSpace Publishing, 2012)
Tameika Meadows
“101 Ways to Do ABA!” is a must-have resource consisting of ABA techniques that have been proven effective in dealing with challenging behaviors. Topics include dealing with tantrums, attending in a classroom, eating in restaurants, and much more.
ISBN-10 1478242108
ISBN-13 9781478242109
See Also: Top 15 Applied Behavior Analysis Bachelor’s Degree and BCaBA Online Programs
The ABA Visual Language: Applied Behavior Analysis (CreateSpace Publishing, 2017)
Makoto Shibutani BCBA
Students, professionals, and parents alike will find “The ABA Visual Language” helpful. This highly useable guide by Makato Shibutani provides detailed explanations, complete with illustrations and real-world examples, of various terms and topics common to a discussion about ABA.
ISBN-10: 1543143083
ISBN-13: 978-1543143089
See Also: Top 25 Best Applied Behavior Analysis Degrees
Applied Behavior Analysis (Pearson, 3rd Ed. 2019*)
John O. Cooper, Timothy E. Heron, and William L. Heward
As one of the most commonly used ABA textbooks (and an Amazon bestseller!), Applied Behavior Analysis provides its (usually) student readers with detailed descriptions and summaries of the must-know aspects of ABA. It’s most appropriate as a foundational applied behavior analysis book for those researching:
- the basics of ABA
- applications
- behavioral research methods
The author, John O. Cooper is the Applied Representative to the Executive Council and Chairperson, Graduate Program Accreditation Committee of the Association for Behavior Analysis International.
2nd edition:
ISBN-10: 0131421131
ISBN-13: 978-0131421134
*The text has recently received an update with a third edition, released in August 2019.
3rd Edition:
ISBN-10: 0134752554
ISBN-13: 978-0134752556
Applied Behavior Analysis: Comprehensive ABA Treatment for Cognitive Functioning and Social Development (Kindle, 2017)
J.P. Pearson
This book by J.P. Pearson, available as an ebook, offers basic information for the reader at the beginning stages of researching ABA. Its simple approach makes it a valuable resource for those hoping to get an idea of what ABA is, what it looks like, and what it can do.
ASIN: B06XBRN3VR
Applied Behavior Analysis: Fifty Case Studies in Home, School, and Community Settings (Springer, 2016)
Kimberly Maich, Darren Levine, and Carmen Hall
What better way to learn about ABA than real-world examples and case studies? That’s exactly what this text by Kimberly Maich and her colleagues provides. The well-organized chapters focus on all of ABA’s core principles, and each example is illustrated with supplementary questions, goal setting, and charts and forms.
ISBN-10: 3319447920
ISBN-13: 978-3319447926
Applied Behavior Analysis for Teachers (Pearson, 9th Ed. 2012)
Paul A. Alberto and Anne C. Troutman
One of the most commonly used behavior analysis textbooks by students studying education is Applied Behavior Analysis for Teachers. It is full of practical advice that can be used in the classroom. It’s full of real-world, classroom-based examples and models. Each example is written in clear, easy-to-read language. Just a few of the topics covered include:
- identifying behaviors
- functional behavioral assessment
- antecedents and consequences
ISBN-10: 0132655977
ISBN-13: 978-0132655972
Applied Behavior Analysis in Early Childhood Education: An Introduction to Evidence-based Interventions and Teaching Strategies (Routledge, 2016)
Laura Baylot Casey and Stacy L. Carter
“Applied Behavior Analysis in Early Childhood Education” offers readers a fact-based summary about the use of ABA for developing children who have special needs. It’s full of helpful advice and examples on topics such as:
- communication with parents
- common everyday challenges
- implementing effective techniques
- coming up with strategies for less common issues
ISBN-10: 1138025127
ISBN-13: 978-1138025127
Behaviorspeak: A Glossary of Terms in Applied Behavior Analysis (Dove and Orca, 2003)
Bobby Newman, Kenneth F. Reeve, Sharon A. Reeve, and Carolyn S. Ryan
Behaviorspeak is a handy reference guide and glossary of common terms used in ABA. What makes Behaviorspeak different from other definition-themed books is its humorous style. Though thorough and relevant, this book uses easy-to-understand language and illustrations to provide readers with the necessary knowledge to discuss ABA confidently.
ISBN-10: 0966852842
ISBN-13: 978-0966852844
Case Studies in Applied Behavior Analysis for Students and Adults with Disabilities (Charles C. Thomas Pub Ltd., 2016)
Keith Storey and Linda Haymes
This book by Keith Storey and Linda Haymes consists of 21 real-world case studies from which students preparing for ABA certification can study and learn. Each case study is written for the reader to help analyze, making it a valuable study tool. Best of all, the text is easy to understand, yet detailed.
ISBN-10: 0398091315
ISBN-13: 978-0398091316
A Complete ABA Curriculum for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum with a Developmental Age of 1-4 Years (Jessica Kingsley Pub, 2014)
Julie Knapp and Caroline Turnbull
An ABA curriculum can start young, and this book provides a complete curriculum that any care giver can provide. This unique resource provides everything a person may need to teach socially important behavior such as:
- eye contact
- appropriate sitting
- language skills
- play
Each lesson comes with thorough step-by-step instructions, plus supplementary materials such as:
- color picture cards
- printable copies
- checklists
ISBN-10: 1849059780
ISBN-13: 978-1849059787
Crafting Connections: Contemporary Applied Behavior Analysis for Enriching the Social Lives of Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder (DRL Books, 2011)
Mitchell Taubman, Ron Leaf, and John McEachin
Crafting Connections is a useful book for any parent, teacher, or professional behavior analyst who works one-on-one with children on the spectrum. Through easy-to-read descriptions and methodical instruction, the book covers such topics as:
- social learning
- social relatedness
- social interaction
- social awareness
- social communication
ISBN-10: 097555991
ISBN-13: 978-0975585993
Effective Programs for Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder: Applied Behavior Analysis Models (Routledge, 2010)
Betty Fry Williams and Randy Lee Williams
Effective Programs for Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder is a comprehensive guide that parents, teachers, and service providers can use to better assist those with autism. This popular and helpful book is organized into three sections:
- characteristics of and general theories surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder
- a detailed overview of ABA
- the various strategies associated with ABA
ISBN-10: 0415999324
ISBN-13: 978-0415999328
Ethics for Behavior Analysts, Third Edition (Routledge, 2016)
Jon Bailey and Mary Burch
This important book, now in its 3rd edition, is one of the best applied behavior analysis books for parents. It is meant to help parents and professionals stay up-to-date on the Behavior Analyst Certification Board Professional and Ethical Compliance Code. To supplement, the authors, Jon Bailey and Mary Burch, include dozens of real-world examples to illustrate various ethical solutions.
ISBN-10: 1138949205
ISBN-13: 978-1138949201
First Course in Applied Behavior Analysis (Waveland, 2006)
Paul Chance
This textbook-like book is mercifully clear-cut and easy to follow. The comprehensive volume is meant for:
Featured Programs
- parents
- teachers
- students
- professionals
It provides readers with tons of realistic examples supported with research and real-world case studies. It will give readers insight into a variety of relevant topics ranging from the language used by ABA professionals to the most effective procedures for changing behavior.
ISBN-10: 1577664728
ISBN-13: 978-1577664727
Flexible and Focused: Teaching Executive Function Skills to Individuals with Autism and Attention Disorders (Academic Press, 2017)
Adel C. Najdowski
Flexible and Focused by Adel C. Najdowski is a helpful reference for behavior analysts and other caregivers of those on the autism spectrum. Written as a manual, this book offers useful strategies for approaching lessons on:
- focus
- organization
- flexibility
- basic skills
It also comes with supplements such as ready-to-use lesson plans, worksheets, and data sheets.
ISBN-10: 0128098333
ISBN-13: 978-0128098332
Handbook of Applied Behavior Analysis (Guilford Press, 2013)
Wayne W. Fisher, Cathleen C. Piazza and Henry S. Roane, Eds.
For those with research and teaching interests in ABA, this comprehensive book is a must read. Written by two authorities on the subject, Handbook of Applied Behavior Analysis offers its readers detailed descriptions of the various theories, basic research, and intervention methods of ABA. Topics include:
- common ethical issues
- specific applications in education
- autism treatment
- safety skills for children
ISBN-10: 1462513387
ISBN-13: 978-1462513383
How to Think Like a Behavior Analyst: Understanding the Science That Can Change Your Life (Routledge, 2006)
Jon Bailey and Mary Burch
Anyone working with or interested in ABA should have a solid understanding of complex human behavior. Readers acquire fundamental knowledge about human behavior. How to Think Like a Behavior Analyst is written in an easy-to-read question-and-answer format, with thorough information on what behavior analysis is and how it differs from psychotherapy and other methods, how behavior analysis is used in various settings, and more.
ISBN-10: 0805858881
ISBN-13: 978-0805858884
I Know You’re In There: Winning Our War Against Autism (Hindsight Press, 2014)
Marcia Hinds and Ryan Hinds
I Know You’re in There is the Hinds family’s true account of learning about and dealing with their son Ryan’s autism. The book chronicles the long road by which Ryan was treated with intensive behavioral and educational rehabilitation. While the Hinds’ story may not work for everyone, it has offered inspiration and hope to thousands of readers since its publication.
ISBN-10: 0996103902
ISBN-13: 978-0996103909
Language Processing Drills: For Children with Language Processing Disorders (Independently Published, 2017)
Danni Bloom
This book by Danni Bloom covers one specific element of ABA: language development. Language Processing Drills consists of 180 different drills that parents and caregivers can use to help those on the autism spectrum. The drills, illustrated by helpful photos, cover topics ranging from plural vs. singular, to adjectives and prepositions.
ISBN-10: 1549664018
ISBN-13: 978-1549664014
Make a Wish for Me: A Family’s Recovery from Autism (She Writes Press, 2015)
LeeAndra Chergey
Make a Wish for Me is the captivating account of LeeAndra Chergey and her autistic son, Ryan. Chergey lovingly describes the ways in which her family was forced to evolve in the wake of her son’s diagnosis, and her realization that being normal is much less important than being happy. This book has won a number of awards including the Indie Reader Discovery Award, the National Indie Excellence Award (finalist), and the Hollywood Book Festival 2016 Honorable Mention, among others.
ISBN-10: 1631528289
ISBN-13: 978-1631528286
Parent’s Guide to In-Home ABA Programs: Frequently Asked Questions About Applied Behavior Analysis for Your Child with Autism (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2012)
Elle Olivia Johnson
While many of the books on our list are written for students and professionals, this book by Elle Olivia Johnson is meant specifically for parents. It answers some of the most common questions had by parents of children on the autism spectrum — including “What is Applied Behavior Analysis?” — in a concise and easy-to-understand manner. Other topics covered include how to get the most out of an ABA treatment, what to expect when a therapist comes to the home, and more.
ISBN-10: 1849059187
ISBN-13: 978-1849059183
Raising a Child with Autism: A Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis for Parents (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2000)
Shira Richman
If you are a parent looking for the best books on behavioral analysis, you need to check out Raising a Child with Autism by author Shira Richman. Richman walks parents of autistic children through the different ways in which they can implement the principles of ABA at home. The book is full of tips and guidelines for everything from increasing a child’s independence to improving sibling interaction.
ISBN-10: 1853029106
ISBN-13: 978-1853029103
Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis (Taylor & Francis, 2nd Edition, 2017)
Jon S. Bailey and Mary R. Burch
Written by two of the most respected authors in the field of autism research, Research Methods in Applied Behavior Analysis provides a beginning researcher with a clearly written, 10-step sequence of exactly how behavior analysts conduct applied research and submit it for publication. Steps include:
- organizing, implementing, and evaluating research studies
- critiquing journal articles
- extracting treatment ideas from published studies
This is definitely one of the best applied behavior analysis books for anyone considering a career in research.
ISBN: 9781138685260
Science and Human Behavior (Free Press, 1965)
B.F. Skinner
Students of applied behavior analysis will appreciate this book, considered a classic in the field of psychology. Skinner’s theory of human behavior, which is explained in detail in the second section of this work, influenced a generation of psychologists and inspired many of the strategies used in applied behavior analysis. The B.F. Skinner Foundation has made the book available electronically for a suggested donation of $4.99.
ISBN-10: 0029290406
ISBN-13: 978-0029290408
A Step-by-Step ABA Curriculum for Young Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders Age 3-10 (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2013)
Lindsay Hilsen
Parents and caregivers of those with autism spectrum disorder can use this book as a complete curriculum for ABA. The book provides everything needed, including sections on:
- social skills
- reading
- writing
- conversation
- math
It is uniquely separated into three sections for each:
- assessment
- curriculum
- mastery
There is also a section in which a student’s progress can be tracked via a built-in data collection sheet.
ISBN-10: 1849059284
ISBN-13: 978-1849059282
Teach Me Language: A Language Manual for Children with Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, and Related Developmental Disorders (SKF Books, 1997)
Sabrina Freeman and Lorelei Drake
Teach Me Language aims to help parents and speech therapists by acting as a resource for establishing therapy within a child’s home. It achieves this by providing easy-to-understand instructions for various activities to help children on the autism spectrum deal with delayed language. This is one of the best ABA books for parents.
ISBN-10: 0965756505
ISBN-13: 978-0965756501
A Teacher’s Guide to Applied Behavior Analysis: Classroom Solutions for Maladaptive Behavior (Createspace, 2014)
Bret Kernoff BCBA
This book by Bret Kernoff is written specifically for classroom teachers, some of the most common users of applied behavior analysis. Teachers will finish the book with a solid understanding of topics such as:
- measuring behavior and analyzing socially important behavior
- analyzing behavior change procedures
- the ethical and professional responsibilities of ABA, among much more
Each section includes helpful teaching techniques to make ABA that much more helpful in the classroom.
ISBN-10: 1505732131
ISBN-13: 978-1505732139
Understanding Applied Behavior Analysis: An Introduction to ABA for Parents, Teachers, and other Professionals (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2015)
Albert J. Kearney
Albert J. Kearney’s book is ideal for those seeking an introduction to ABA. In readable language, Kearney describes:
- important terms
- basic principles
- common procedures of ABA
He also briefly introduces more advanced topics such as precision teaching and behavioral education.
ISBN-10: 1849057850
ISBN-13: 978-1849057851
The Verbal Behavior Approach: How to Teach Children with Autism and Related Disorders (Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2007)
Dr. Mary Barbera and Tracy Rasmussen
Written by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, The Verbal Behavior Approach focuses on Verbal Behavior (VB), a specific form of applied behavior analysis. Parents interested in verbal behavior will learn about how this particular strategy works well with children who have few to no verbal abilities.
ISBN-10: 1843108526
ISBN-13: 978-1843108528
