How AWARE Are You About Social Emotional Learning (SEL) And What the Heck Does It Have To Do With ABA?
- Christina Whalen, PhD, BCBA
- Jul 2, 2024
- 2 min read
SEL could be one of the most impactful approaches for promoting behavioral change. In a rapidly evolving and challenging world, it is crucial to explore the potential for advancing both ABA and SEL fields mutually. The idea might not be as far-fetched as it seems!

Social emotional learning (SEL) is the process by which individuals of all ages gain and utilize the knowledge, abilities, and attitudes necessary to cultivate positive self-perceptions, regulate emotions, attain individual and shared objectives, demonstrate empathy towards others, foster and sustain meaningful relationships, and exercise responsible and compassionate judgment.
Studies show that social and emotional learning (SEL) results in positive effects on social skills, emotional regulation, academic achievement, mental well-being, healthy habits, motivation, school environment, safety, and long-term outcomes.
ABA is dedicated to implementing interventions that are socially relevant and produce significant and measurable results. Although conventional behavioral techniques are frequently successful, we sometimes fall short by neglecting the importance of relationships, emotions, and self-awareness. Adopting a growth mindset to explore beyond our discipline could enhance current interventions and facilitate collaboration between various fields. Without disregarding the science and established practices of ABA, we might effectively integrate the evidence-based interventions of SEL. Adopting SEL vocabulary and skills into an objective and measurable framework may positively change how we address behavior.
ABA is frequently disregarded for its emphasis on Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT), a highly specific and structured intervention. While DTT can be beneficial for many children, it tends to overlook relationships, which some critics of ABA find problematic. ABA has the potential to enhance Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) interventions by improving behavioral assessment and results. This mutually beneficial relationship could enhance both ABA and SEL approaches.
enROSE is a recently established company committed to integrating various disciplines in a cohesive and effective manner to enhance our approaches in educational institutions, households, workplaces, and communities.
Our AWARE series aims to seamlessly combine ABA and SEL, elevating both fields of expertise. You have the option to participate in individual webinars or multiple ones. For those looking to specialize, we provide an AWARE certification program.
Thank you for joining us on our journey. We are always receptive to feedback, ideas, and collaboration.
“Smell the roses. Smell the coffee. Whatever it is that makes you happy.” – Rita Moreno
Resources CASEL: https://casel.org/fundamentals-of-sel/what-does-the-research-say/
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