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Exploring What Are the Two Types of ABA in Detail
February 17, 2026
Key Highlights
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a leading intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
- The two main types of ABA are
Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Training (NET).
- DTT is a structured method that breaks down new skills into manageable steps, often used for foundational learning.
- NET focuses on teaching skills within a child's daily routines and natural environment, promoting skill development.
- Comprehensive ABA therapy often combines both DTT and NET to meet a child's unique needs.
- Choosing the right type of ABA involves collaboration between parents and therapists to create a personalized plan.
Introduction
If you're exploring therapeutic options for a child with autism spectrum disorder, you’ve likely come across Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). ABA therapy is a science-based approach that helps individuals improve communication, social, and learning skills. But did you know there are different ways to deliver this therapy? Understanding the main types of ABA can help you make an informed decision for your family. This guide will walk you through the two primary methods used in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina, explaining how each one works.
Overview of ABA Therapy and Its Importance
ABA therapy is a cornerstone of support for many individuals, particularly those on the autism spectrum. At its heart, behavior analysis seeks to understand how behavior works and how it is affected by the environment. This understanding allows therapists to create personalized strategies to encourage positive changes and develop essential skills.
The importance of ABA lies in its evidence-based approach to meeting the unique needs of each person. By breaking down complex goals into smaller steps, comprehensive ABA therapy helps build a foundation for lifelong learning. Now, let's explore what ABA therapy involves and why it's so widely recommended.
Understanding Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a scientific approach focused on understanding and improving behavior. It is based on the principles of behavior, which state that behaviors followed by positive reinforcement are more likely to be repeated. ABA therapy uses this concept to teach new skills and reduce behavioral challenges.
Therapists use a framework known as the ABC model: Antecedent (what happens before a behavior), Behavior (the action itself), and Consequence (what happens after). By analyzing this sequence, a therapist can identify patterns and design interventions that support positive change. This methodical approach is tailored to the individual needs of each person, making it a highly personalized form of therapy.
The ultimate goal is to increase helpful behaviors and decrease those that may cause harm or interfere with learning. Through consistent application of these principles, ABA helps individuals gain greater independence and a better quality of life.
Why ABA Is Widely Used for Autism in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina
Across Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina, ABA therapy is a widely recognized and trusted intervention for individuals on the autism spectrum. Its popularity stems from its proven effectiveness and adaptable nature. ABA provides a structured yet flexible framework to address the core challenges associated with autism, such as social communication and repetitive behaviors.
One of the key reasons for its widespread use is the emphasis on early intervention. When started at a young age, ABA can have a profound impact on a child's development, helping them build foundational skills that support future learning. We have seen in our sessions how early, consistent therapy helps children make significant strides in their ability to communicate and interact with others.
Furthermore, ABA is not limited to a clinical setting. The principles of behavior analysis can be applied in various settings, including at home and in school, making it a practical and versatile approach. This ensures that the skills learned are generalized and become a natural part of the individual's life, meeting their unique needs wherever they are.
The Two Main Types of ABA: Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Training (NET)
When you hear about ABA therapy, it's often referring to one of two primary methods: Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Training (NET). While both fall under the umbrella of Applied Behavior Analysis and share the same core principles, they are delivered in very different ways.
Understanding these two types of ABA is key to creating a comprehensive ABA program that truly fits a child's needs. DTT offers a highly structured approach, while NET uses a more child-led, naturalistic style. Let's look at each one more closely.
What Is Discrete Trial Training (DTT)?
Discrete Trial Training (DTT) is a structured ABA therapy method that breaks down skills into small, "discrete" components. Each trial has a distinct beginning, middle, and end. The therapist provides a clear instruction, prompts the correct response if needed, and follows up with positive reinforcement for a correct answer.
This method is highly effective for teaching new and specific behaviors, especially for children who may struggle with learning in a more naturalistic setting. By breaking skills into manageable steps, DTT helps address skill deficits without overwhelming the learner.
For example, a therapist might use DTT to teach colors, shapes, or basic imitation skills.
The repetitive nature of DTT provides many opportunities for a child to practice and master a skill. This focused, one-on-one instruction is a cornerstone of many intensive behavioral intervention programs and is excellent for building a strong foundation of skills.
What Is Natural Environment Training (NET)?
Natural Environment Training (NET) is an ABA therapy approach that takes place in a child's everyday surroundings, like at home, on the playground, or during a meal. Unlike the structured format of DTT, NET is child-led and uses the child's natural motivations to create learning opportunities. The goal is to embed teaching into daily routines and play.
This method is particularly powerful for teaching social skills and life skills, as it helps with generalizing skills to real-world situations. For example, if a child is playing with blocks, a therapist might use that moment to work on counting, colors, or taking turns. The learning feels like play, which can increase a child's engagement.
In our ABA programs, we find that NET is excellent for helping children apply what they've learned in different contexts. It makes learning functional and meaningful, connecting new abilities to their daily life and helping them practice communication and social interaction in a natural way.
Core Principles of Discrete Trial Training (DTT)
Discrete Trial Training (DTT) is built on a foundation of structure and repetition. The core idea is to create a clear and predictable learning environment where a child can acquire new skills with minimal distraction. Positive reinforcement is central to this process, as it motivates the child and reinforces correct responses.
This method is a form of intensive behavioral intervention that is carefully planned and implemented. Treatment plans using DTT are data-driven, with therapists tracking every response to measure progress and adjust teaching as needed. The following sections will explore the specific techniques used in DTT and provide a real-world example.
Structure and Techniques Used in DTT
The structure of Discrete Trial Training is methodical and designed for clarity. Each trial consists of a few key components that are repeated to teach specific skills. This intensive intervention approach ensures that the learner has many opportunities to practice and succeed.
The process typically follows these steps:
- Antecedent: The therapist presents a clear and concise instruction, such as "point to the red block."
- Prompt: If necessary, the therapist provides a prompt (e.g., gently guiding the child's hand) to help them succeed.
- Response: The child gives a response, either correct or incorrect.
- Consequence: A correct response is immediately followed by positive reinforcement (e.g., praise or a small toy). An incorrect response is met with a neutral correction.
This cycle is repeated, and reinforcement systems are used to keep the child motivated. By breaking down learning into manageable steps, DTT helps children build complex skills piece by piece.
Case Example: DTT in Early Childhood Autism Sessions
Let's consider a real-world example of DTT in action with a young child with autism spectrum disorder. In our early intervention sessions, we often work with children who are non-verbal or have limited communication skills. We might use DTT to teach them to identify and label common objects.
For a child named Alex, our therapist started by placing two picture cards on a table: one of an apple and one of a ball. The therapist would say, "Touch apple." When Alex touched the correct card, he was immediately rewarded with praise and a minute of playtime with his favorite toy. This process was repeated multiple times in a session.
Over time, as Alex mastered this, we introduced more cards and faded the prompts. This structured teaching of specific behaviors helped Alex build a vocabulary of new skills that he could later use in more natural settings. This foundational learning was a critical first step in his communication journey.
Key Features of Natural Environment Training (NET)
Natural Environment Training (NET) is characterized by its fluid, child-led approach. Unlike the formal structure of DTT, NET embeds learning opportunities within the child's natural environment and daily activities. It capitalizes on the child's interests to make learning feel like play, which is excellent for fostering social interaction.
This type of ABA therapy is tailored to the child’s needs at the moment. The therapist acts as a facilitator, guiding the child to practice skills in a functional and meaningful way. Let's examine how NET uses everyday routines for learning and look at a scenario where it supports communication.
How NET Uses Everyday Routines for Learning
Natural Environment Training (NET) transforms daily routines into powerful learning opportunities. Instead of sitting at a table, learning happens during activities the child already enjoys, such as snack time, playing with toys, or getting ready for bed. This approach helps with skill generalization, as the child learns to use skills in the context where they are most needed.
A therapist using NET might incorporate learning targets into various activities.
Here's how it could look:
- During snack time: The therapist can work on requesting ("I want juice, please") or labeling foods.
- While playing with a puzzle: This can be an opportunity to teach shapes, colors, or spatial words like "in" and "on."
- Getting dressed: A therapist can target skills like identifying clothing items or following multi-step directions.
- Reading a book: This is a great time to practice communication skills by asking "what" or "where" questions.
By weaving ABA therapy into these daily activities, NET helps children develop positive behaviors and communication skills in a way that feels natural and fun.
Real-World Scenario: NET Supporting Communication Skills
Imagine a child named Maya who loves playing with her toy train set. In a real-world scenario using Natural Environment Training (NET), a therapist would join Maya in her play to work on communication skills. The therapist might hold onto a piece of the track that Maya needs to complete her railway.
This creates a natural opportunity for Maya to request the item. Instead of just giving it to her, the therapist might wait for Maya to communicate her need, whether through a word, a sign, or by pointing. When Maya makes an attempt to communicate, the therapist immediately provides positive reinforcement by giving her the track piece and praising her effort.
This interaction is tailored to the child’s needs and motivation at the moment. The therapist is not directing the play but is instead using the child's interest to create a functional learning moment. This is how NET helps build communication skills that are meaningful and immediately useful in the child's life.
Comparing DTT and NET: Methods and Practical Applications
Both Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Training (NET) are valuable types of ABA therapy, but they serve different purposes and are applied in different ways. DTT is highly structured and excellent for teaching foundational skills, while NET is more flexible and focuses on generalizing those skills in everyday life.
Understanding the similarities and differences between these ABA interventions is crucial for developing a well-rounded treatment plan. The table below provides a quick comparison, and the following sections will explain their shared principles and distinct features in more detail.
| Feature | Discrete Trial Training (DTT) | Natural Environment Training (NET) |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Structured, often at a table | Natural environments (home, school, playground) |
| Instruction | Therapist-led, discrete trials | Child-led, embedded in daily activities |
| Focus | Teaching new, specific skills | Generalizing skills and social interaction |
| Reinforcement | Pre-determined, often tangible | Natural reinforcers related to the activity |
Similarities Between DTT and NET Approaches
While they appear very different, DTT and NET share the same core principles of ABA therapy. Both approaches are rooted in data-driven decision-making, meaning therapists constantly track progress to ensure the interventions are effective.
Here are some key similarities between these types of ABA:
- Use of Positive Reinforcement: Both methods rely heavily on positive reinforcement to motivate the child and encourage correct responses.
- Focus on Skill Development: The ultimate goal of both DTT and NET is to help individuals acquire new, functional skills.
- Individualized Plans: Whether using DTT or NET, treatment is always tailored to the learner's specific needs and goals.
- Breaking Down Skills: Both approaches break down complex skills into smaller, more manageable parts to facilitate learning.
These foundational similarities ensure that no matter which approach is used, the therapy is systematic, evidence-based, and focused on helping the individual make meaningful progress.
Differences in Structure, Flexibility, and Social Engagement
The primary differences between Discrete Trial Training and Natural Environment Training lie in their structure, flexibility, and approach to social engagement. These different approaches allow therapists to target skills in various ways.
Here’s a breakdown of the key distinctions:
- Structure: DTT is highly structured and predictable, with sessions planned by the therapist. NET is more fluid and follows the child's lead, with learning opportunities arising spontaneously.
- Flexibility: DTT is less flexible, as it follows a rigid trial format. NET is very flexible and adapts to the child's changing interests and environment.
- Learning Environment: DTT typically occurs in a controlled, distraction-free setting. NET takes place in the child's natural environment, incorporating the distractions of everyday life.
- Social Interaction: While DTT can teach social rules, NET provides a more natural context for practicing social interaction in real-time.
Understanding these differences is key for parents and therapists in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina when deciding which method, or combination of methods, is best for a child.
Benefits of Each ABA Type for Children with Autism
Both DTT and NET offer distinct benefits for children on the autism spectrum. The best approach depends on the individual needs of the child and the specific skills being targeted. DTT is highly effective for rapid skill acquisition, while NET excels at skill generalization and social learning.
Often, a comprehensive ABA therapy program will blend both types of ABA to provide a well-rounded intervention. This allows a child to learn a new skill in a structured setting and then practice applying it in their everyday life. Let's explore the specific strengths of each method.
Strengths of DTT for Skill Acquisition
Discrete Trial Training offers significant strengths when it comes to skill acquisition. Its highly structured and repetitive nature provides the multiple practice opportunities that many children with autism need to learn new skills. This makes it an ideal method for teaching foundational abilities.
Here are some of the key strengths of DTT:
- Clarity and Simplicity: The format is clear and easy for a child to understand, reducing confusion.
- High Rate of Repetition: It allows for many learning trials in a short amount of time, accelerating the acquisition of specific behaviors.
- Measurable Progress: The data-driven nature of DTT makes it easy to track progress and see exactly what a child is learning.
- Effective for Foundational Skills: It is particularly good for teaching academic skills, motor skills, and basic language concepts that form the building blocks for more complex learning.
In our ABA therapy sessions, we've seen DTT work wonders for children who need a focused, distraction-free environment to master new concepts before they are ready to practice them in a more natural setting.
Advantages of NET for Generalizing Skills
The primary advantage of Natural Environment Training is its power in generalizing skills. Learning a skill is one thing, but being able to use it in different situations, with different people, is the ultimate goal. NET is designed to do just that by teaching skills within the context of everyday life.
Here are some of the key advantages of NET:
- Promotes Spontaneity: It encourages children to use their skills spontaneously, rather than just in response to a direct instruction.
- Enhances Social and Communication Skills: NET provides real-time opportunities to practice social skills and functional communication.
- Increases Motivation: By using a child's interests and natural reinforcers, NET keeps motivation high and makes learning feel like play.
- Fosters Independence: It helps children see the real-world value of their new skills, leading to more positive behaviors and greater independence in their daily routines.
By integrating therapy into a child's world, NET bridges the gap between learning a skill and living it.
Choosing the Right ABA Therapy for Your Child
Deciding on the right type of ABA therapy for your child can feel like a big decision. The good news is that you don't have to choose just one. The best approach is often a combination of DTT and NET, tailored to your child's unique needs and learning style.
Creating a supportive environment where your child can thrive is the top priority. This involves a collaborative process between you and your ABA therapist to determine which methods will best meet your child’s needs. Let's look at the factors to consider and how these two types of ABA therapy can be used together.
Factors Parents and Therapists Consider in Decision-Making
When deciding on the right types of ABA for a child, parents and therapists in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina work together to evaluate several key factors. This collaborative approach ensures that the treatment plan is truly personalized and effective.
Here are some of the main considerations:
- The Child's Age and Developmental Level: Younger children or those just beginning therapy may benefit more from the structure of DTT to build foundational skills.
- Specific Learning Goals: If the goal is to teach a discrete skill like matching colors, DTT is ideal. If the goal is to improve conversational skills, NET is more appropriate.
- The Child's Learning Style: Some children thrive in a structured environment, while others learn best through play and exploration.
- Current Skill Set: A child's existing abilities will help determine whether the focus should be on initial skill acquisition or generalization.
- Family Goals and Priorities: The family's input is crucial in shaping a comprehensive ABA therapy plan that fits into their life.
By carefully considering these factors, the team can create an effective and balanced treatment plan that addresses the child's individual needs.
When Both DTT and NET Are Used Together
In most comprehensive ABA therapy programs, DTT and NET are not mutually exclusive. Instead, they are used together to create a powerful, well-rounded intervention. This blended approach allows a child to benefit from the strengths of both methods.
For example, a therapist might use DTT to introduce a new concept, such as identifying emotions on picture cards, in a quiet, structured setting. Once the child has mastered this skill in a one-on-one session, the therapist can then use NET to help them practice recognizing and responding to those emotions in real-life situations, like during a playdate or while reading a story.
This combination ensures that skills are not only learned but also become functional and meaningful. By integrating different approaches, including techniques like Pivotal Response Training (PRT), therapists can address challenging behaviors and promote widespread skill development in a way that is both effective and engaging for the child.
Role of ABA Therapists in Delivering DTT and NET
ABA therapists play a crucial role in designing and implementing both DTT and NET. Their expertise is essential in assessing a child's needs, creating a personalized treatment plan, and selecting the most appropriate teaching methods. They are trained to conduct a functional behavior assessment to understand the "why" behind a behavior.
A skilled therapist knows when to use the structured approach of Discrete Trial Training and when to shift to the more naturalistic style of Natural Environment Training. Let's explore how professionals assess needs and the vital role of family involvement in the process.
How Professionals Assess Needs and Track Progress
ABA professionals begin by conducting a thorough assessment to understand a child’s unique needs. This often involves direct observation, interviews with parents and teachers, and standardized assessments. A functional behavior assessment may also be used to identify the root causes of challenging behaviors.
Based on this information, the therapist develops an individualized treatment plan with clear, measurable goals. Progress tracking is a continuous process in ABA therapy. Therapists meticulously collect data during every session to monitor the child's learning.
Here’s how they do it:
- Data Collection: Recording correct and incorrect responses during DTT or tracking spontaneous skill use during NET.
- Graphing Progress: Visualizing data on graphs to see trends and patterns over time.
- Regular Reviews: Analyzing the data frequently to make informed decisions about the treatment plan.
- Adjusting Interventions: Modifying teaching strategies if the data shows a child is not making progress.
This data-driven approach ensures that the therapy is always effective and tailored to the child's changing needs.
Family Involvement in ABA Programs
Family involvement is a critical component of successful ABA programs. When parents and caregivers are active participants in the therapy process, a child is more likely to make meaningful progress. Creating a supportive environment at home helps reinforce the skills learned during therapy sessions.
In our programs, we work closely with families in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina to ensure they feel confident and empowered.
Here’s why family involvement is so important:
- Consistency: It ensures that skills are practiced consistently across different settings and with different people.
- Generalization: Parents can help their child apply new skills to everyday routines and activities.
- Support for Families: Parent training provides families with the tools to manage behavioral disorders and support their child's development.
- Better Outcomes: Research shows that when families are involved, children make faster and more lasting progress.
By working as a team, therapists and families can create a cohesive and supportive network that helps the child thrive.
Conclusion
Understanding the two types of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Training (NET), is crucial for parents and professionals working with children on the autism spectrum. Each method offers unique benefits that cater to different learning needs and environments. DTT provides structured skill acquisition, while NET emphasizes learning within everyday situations, enhancing generalization of skills. By assessing your child's individual needs and consulting with qualified ABA therapists, you can make informed decisions about which approach or combination of approaches will best support their development.
At Divine Steps ABA, we are serving families, and we specialize in tailoring both Discrete Trial Training (DTT) and Natural Environment Training (NET) to meet each child’s unique needs. our experienced team partners with families, schools, and professionals to ensure ABA therapy in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina is effective, ethical, and empowering.
Discover how we can help your child thrive in daily life and learning. Contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if DTT or NET is right for my child?
The best way to know is to consult with a qualified ABA therapist. They will assess your child’s individual needs, learning style, and specific goals. Often, a blend of both Discrete Trial Training and Natural Environment Training is the most effective approach to support your child's needs.
Can DTT and NET be combined within an ABA program?
Absolutely. Most comprehensive ABA therapy programs combine DTT and NET to provide a well-rounded intervention. This allows a child to learn new skills in a structured way (DTT) and then practice using them in everyday situations (NET), which is especially helpful for managing challenging behaviors.
What should parents look for in a quality ABA therapy provider?
Look for a provider with certified and experienced ABA therapists who prioritize creating individualized treatment plans. A quality provider will involve your family in the process, regularly track progress, and create a supportive environment that is tailored to your child’s unique needs.
SOURCES:
https://manhattanpsychologygroup.com/MPG-blog/dtt-or-net-in-aba-therapy-finding-the-best-practices-for-clients/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Discrete_trial_training
https://6854285.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/6854285/ABA_Evidence-Based%20ABA%20Therapy%20Techniques.pdf
https://www.gcd.nm.gov/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Effects_of_Applied_Behavior_Analysis_on_individuals_with_Autism.pdf
https://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/sites/default/files/nt_docs/1115-applied-behavioral-analysis-topic-brief.pdf
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