What is Applied Verbal Behavior (AVB)?
Applied Verbal Behavior (AVB) is an approach within the realm of ABA which places more emphasis on verbal communication and language development, and is based on B.F. Skinner’s theory of language processes and verbal behavior. Skinner breaks down the language process into five different categories: • Requests • Imitation • Expressive labels • Following instructions • Responding to verbal behaviors The AVB approach teaches children how to communicate well using each of these five principles. The idea behind this approach is that language is the foundation for a lot of other skills in life that involve any communication – so, establishing those foundations will help reap benefits across the board. Though similar to ABA, AVB intervention is less structured and implemented in a more natural and familiar environment. All in all, both techniques are closely related and many children diagnosed with PDD-NOS can benefit from both treatments administered by a speech-language pathologist. Worth E
