In Behavior Analysis the focus of study is direct observation of behavior and the relationship between environmental events and responses (behavior) they evoke. The field of applying these principles to improve socially significant behavior is called Applied Behavior Analysis, also know as ABA. ABA looks at the relationship between a behavior emitted by an individual and the environment in which the individual resides.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders , Autistic Spectrum Disorder is comprised of a multitude of behaviors either overrepresented, such as stereotypic behaviors, or underrepresented, such as eye contact or communication skills. A spectrum disorder, ASD appears differently across individuals affected.