Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) uses different teaching strategies to help individuals develop new skills. Two commonly used techniques are shaping and chaining, and while they share the same goal—skill building—they work in different ways.
Shaping builds or improves one behavior by reinforcing small steps that get closer to the goal. Chaining teaches a routine by breaking it into steps (a task analysis) and teaching the steps in a planned order.
What is Shaping in ABA?
Shaping is the process of gradually teaching a new behavior by reinforcing closer and closer approximations of the desired action.
Instead of expecting the final skill immediately, the learner is rewarded for small, progressive steps that lead toward the goal. Here’s an example:
Goal: A student stays seated for 20 minutes.
- Week 1: reinforce 3 minutes
- Week 2: reinforce 5 minutes
- Week 3: reinforce 10 minutes
- Keep increasing until the final goal is realistic and steady
Common shaping mistakes
- No clear definition of the goal (the team is not measuring the same thing)
- Raising criteria too fast, so the learner stops contacting reinforcement
- Reinforcing the wrong approximation, which can accidentally build a different behavior than intended
What is Chaining in ABA?
Chaining breaks down a complex skill into smaller, manageable steps, teaching them one at a time until the entire sequence is mastered. Each step serves as a “link” in the chain.
For example, brushing teeth can be broken into steps like picking up the toothbrush, applying toothpaste, and brushing. There are different chaining methods—forward chaining, backward chaining, and total task chaining—depending on the learner’s needs.
Three common chaining methods
Indiana University’s autism resource explains these common approaches:
- Forward chaining
- Teach step 1 first, then step 2, and so on.
- Backward chaining
- Teach the last step first, so the learner finishes the routine and contacts the “end result” quickly.
- Total task teaching
- Practice the whole routine each time, giving help only on the steps that are not mastered yet.
Conclusion
Shaping and chaining may sound like technical terms, but in ABA therapy, they are powerful tools for helping learners reach their full potential. Shaping nurtures gradual growth by rewarding progress along the way, while chaining builds complex skills step-by-step until the entire process is mastered.
When used thoughtfully, these strategies can make learning more effective, less overwhelming, and tailored to the individual’s pace.
Able Stars ABA – Maryland’s Leader in Skill-Building Support
At Able Stars ABA, we understand that every learner’s journey is unique. That’s why our highly trained therapists don’t just follow a standard plan—they design custom programs using proven strategies like shaping and chaining to help each client succeed.
Serving families across Maryland, we combine evidence-based techniques with compassionate, hands-on care that empowers individuals to grow skills for independence, communication, and daily living.
Whether your child is learning a new behavior or mastering a multi-step routine, Able Stars ABA is here to provide the guidance, patience, and expertise needed to turn small victories into lifelong abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can shaping and chaining be used together?
A: Yes. Therapists sometimes combine both methods for skill building.
Q: Which is better for teaching?
A: It depends on the skill—shaping works well for new behaviors, while chaining suits multi-step tasks.
Q: Are these techniques only for children?
A: No, they can be used for learners of all ages.
Sources:
https://www.autismspeaks.org/applied-behavior-analysis
https://www.appliedbehavioranalysisedu.org/behavior-chaining