In ABA practice, how should errors be addressed with learners?

In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), it is essential to create a safe and supportive learning environment for learners. When addressing errors, the focus should be on promoting learning and encouraging persistence rather than discouragement. Telling a learner that they are wrong can lead to feelings of frustration or shame, which can hamper their motivation and willingness to engage with the learning process.

Instead of emphasizing mistakes negatively, providing constructive feedback or guidance without directly stating they are wrong helps the learner understand what they need to work on without damaging their self-esteem. This approach fosters a growth mindset, allowing learners to see errors as opportunities for learning rather than as failures. By not explicitly stating they are wrong, practitioners can guide them toward the correct behavior or understanding in a supportive manner.