Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the science in which principles of behavior are systematically applied to improve socially significant behavior, while experimentation is used to identify the variables responsible for behavior change.
In practice, ABA involves observing and measuring behaviour, identifying environmental factors that influence behaviour, and using evidence-based procedures to support meaningful and socially significant change.
ABA can be applied across a range of areas, including communication, learning, social skills, daily living skills, education, organizational settings, and independence. ABA is not limited to autism.
At SBAA, we believe that the application of ABA should be ethical, culturally responsive, and respectful of each individual's dignity, autonomy, preferences, and quality of life.

No. Although ABA is commonly associated with autism services, the principles of behaviour analysis can be applied across many populations and settings. Behaviour analysts may work with children or adults in areas such as education, developmental disabilities, mental health, organizational settings, healthcare, and skill development.

Culture influences how people communicate, understand behaviour, make decisions, interact with others, and experience services. Culturally responsive practice means considering factors such as language, family values, cultural practices, and lived experiences when providing support.
At SBAA, we believe cultural considerations should be part of good practice—not an afterthought.

SBAA is building a community for professionals, students, caregivers, researchers, educators, allied professionals, and community members who are interested in behaviour analysis and related areas.
Student membership is currently available. Other membership categories will be introduced in the future.

Students can get involved through opportunities such as study groups, training, article reviews, job shadowing, mentorship, and scholarships as they become available. We also encourage students to connect with SBAA to learn about upcoming opportunities.

Yes! We welcome professionals who are interested in contributing to the SBAA community. Professional membership and additional opportunities for professionals are currently coming soon.

Absolutely. We recognize that the transition from student to professional can come with its own challenges. SBAA plans to create opportunities specifically for newly qualified professionals, including opportunities to connect, learn, and build their professional network.
Newly Qualified Professional membership and programming are coming soon.

Yes. Caregivers are an important part of the SBAA community. We aim to provide accessible resources, education, and opportunities for caregivers to learn more about behaviour and behavioural support.
Caregiver programming and resources are coming soon.

SBAA is not a therapy provider. Our role is to promote education, awareness, professional development, collaboration, research, and culturally responsive practice. We may share information and resources to help individuals and families better understand behaviour analysis and available services.

We welcome individuals who want to contribute their time, knowledge, skills, or experience. Volunteer opportunities will be shared as they become available.

We are open to working with professionals, researchers, organizations, educators, community groups, and other organizations whose work aligns with our goals. For partnership inquiries, please contact us through our Partnerships or Contact page.

SBAA is open to partnering with researchers, students, professionals, and organizations to support and conduct research focused on Somali communities.
We are particularly interested in research that explores the experiences, needs, and perspectives of Somali individuals and families and contributes to more culturally responsive practice.
If you are interested in partnering with SBAA on a research study or research project, please contact us to discuss potential opportunities for collaboration.

Upcoming events, training opportunities, and other activities will be shared on our Events page and through our newsletter and social media channels.

You can subscribe to our newsletter and follow SBAA on social media to stay informed about upcoming events, opportunities, resources, and announcements.

Yes. We are interested in sharing resources and perspectives that align with our mission. If you have an article, research, educational resource, or other relevant contribution you'd like us to consider, please contact us.

We'd love to hear from you. Please visit our Contact page and send us a message. For specific inquiries, you can also use the relevant section of our website, such as Partnerships, Membership, or Volunteer opportunities.