Understanding the Key Differences Between ABA and DTT

Introduction

The Broad Scope of ABA

Key Areas of ABA Application

• Skill Development – Teaching communication, academics, and life skills

• Behavior Reduction – Managing challenging behaviors like aggression and self-injury

• Social Skills Training – Encouraging interaction, play, and relationship-building

• Functional Communication – Enhancing verbal and non-verbal communication

• Independence & Daily Living – Teaching self-care, hygiene, and time management

ABA is a scientific approach that applies principles of learning and behavior to improve socially significant skills. It is widely used to support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, developmental disabilities, and other behavioral challenges.

If you’re new to behavioral interventions, you may have heard Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) used interchangeably. While they are closely related, they are not the same. DTT is just one of many techniques used within ABA. ABA is a broad, science-based approach to understanding and modifying behavior, while DTT is a specific instructional method within ABA that focuses on structured teaching.

ABA is not limited to a single method—it includes a variety of evidence-based techniques such as:

• Natural Environment Teaching (NET) – Learning through play and everyday interactions

• Pivotal Response Training (PRT) – Focusing on motivation and social engagement

• Functional Communication Training (FCT) – Replacing problem behaviors with effective communication

• Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) – A structured teaching method (explained below)

ABA is flexible and can be applied in multiple settings - home, school, community, and therapy centers.

What is Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT)?

DTT is a structured teaching method within ABA where complex skills are broken into small steps. Each step is taught individually and reinforced until mastered. A typical discrete trial consists of:

• Instruction (Antecedent) – The therapist gives a prompt (e.g., “What’s this color?”).

• Response (Behavior) – The child responds (e.g., “Red”).

• Consequence (Reinforcement or Correction) – If correct, reinforcement is given (e.g., praise, a token). If incorrect, corrective feedback is provided.

DTT is especially effective for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) because it teaches foundational skills through repetition. It is also sometimes used by therapists for children with ADHD.

Scope

Purpose

Flexibility

Setting

Examples

Multiple interventions

Uses different methods to teach behavior

Uses NET, PRT and additional methods

Can be implemented anywhere

Social skills, behavior, communication

ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)

DTT (Discrete Trial Teaching)

A specific teaching strategy within ABA

Breaks down skills into small, structured steps

Highly structured, conducted in controlled settings

Typically occurs in 1:1 settings in early intervention

Repeated questioning and rewarding correct responses

How to Get an Expert Evaluation & Diagnosis

If you suspect your child may benefit from ABA and/or DTT, getting a professional evaluation is the first step. Dr. John Carosso, Psy.D. is a Child Clinical Psychologist and Certified School Psychologist, specializing in assessing children with Autism, ADHD, and behavioral challenges. He would be happy to help your family with evaluations, diagnosis, and treatment. To schedule an appointment, call Autism Centers of Pittsburgh at: (724) 733-5757. A proper evaluation can determine the best intervention plan, ensuring your child receives the most effective support tailored to their needs.

Understanding the difference between ABA and DTT is crucial for parents, educators, and therapists working with children who need behavioral support. ABA is an overarching science, while Discrete Trial Teaching is just one of many effective techniques. Knowing when and how to use it, along with other ABA-based strategies, can significantly improve a child’s learning and development.

In Conclusion