What is Redirection in ABA Therapy?
In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, redirection is a proactive strategy used to shift a learner’s attention away from an interfering behavior and guide them toward a more appropriate or functional behavior.
Redirection in ABA therapy is often employed in real-time to reduce interruptions, de-escalate situations, and reinforce positive alternatives. This technique is most effective when used immediately and consistently.
Redirection can be verbal, gestural, or physical (such as guiding a child to a preferred activity). The goal is not to punish, but to help the learner develop self-regulation and replace interfering behaviors with more desirable ones.
Redirection is commonly paired with reinforcement. For example, after redirecting a child from throwing toys to placing them in a bin, the behavior technician may offer praise or a preferred item to reinforce the new behavior.
Redirection is often included as part of a child’s Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) and is aligned with broader ABA principles such as positive reinforcement and functional communication training.
Additional resources like HeadStart.gov and Vanderbilt’s CSEFEL Center offer additional insights into proactive behavioral strategies like redirection.
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Redirection Examples in ABA Therapy
Example 1: Redirecting to a Preferred Activity
A child begins tapping loudly on a table during group time. The behavior technician redirects the child by offering a fidget toy and guiding them to a quiet table activity that meets their sensory needs. The interfering behavior stops, and the child remains engaged.
Example 2: Redirecting Aggression
If a child starts to pinch a peer, the behavior technician might redirect them by calling their name, providing a task that involves hand use (like placing stickers on paper), and praising the child for following the instruction.
Example 3: Preventing Escalation
When a child shows early signs of frustration during a math task, the behavior technician might redirect them to a break area with calming visuals and then reintroduce the task gradually using a token system.
Redirection is most successful when it anticipates the behavior and is embedded in a consistent, supportive routine.
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FAQs About Redirection in ABA Therapy
What is the purpose of redirection in ABA?
Redirection helps guide a child away from interfering or unsafe behavior toward a safer, more appropriate alternative. It supports skill-building and behavior regulation without using punishment.
How does redirection differ from punishment?
Unlike punishment, redirection focuses on positive behavior change. It teaches alternative behaviors instead of delivering a consequence meant to reduce a behavior.
Is redirection effective for all children?
Redirection is most effective when tailored to a child’s developmental level and individual behavior plan. It may need to be paired with reinforcement, modeling, or prompting.
Can parents use redirection at home?
Yes. Parents can be trained to use redirection consistently across home and community settings. It supports the generalization of skills taught during therapy sessions.
When should redirection be used?
Redirection is best used early—at the first sign of interfering behavior. Waiting too long may allow the behavior to escalate, making it harder to shift attention.
Key Takeaways About Redirection in ABA Therapy
- Redirection is a non-punitive ABA strategy that guides learners from interfering to appropriate behaviors.
- It can be verbal, gestural, or physical, depending on the situation.
- Redirection is often paired with positive reinforcement for long-term skill-building.
- It works best when applied early, consistently, and as part of a structured behavior plan.
- Parents, caregivers, and educators can all use redirection as a proactive support strategy.
