# What is assent in ABA, and how do I build assent-based practice?

> What assent and assent withdrawal look like, why they matter, and practical ways to build them into sessions and plans.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/assent-in-aba
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** Assent is a client's ongoing agreement to take part, shown through words, actions or body language, especially for children who can't give legal consent. Assent withdrawal is any sign they want to stop. Assent-based ABA watches for these signals, responds to them, and adjusts the session or plan so learning happens with the client, not to them.

**Key takeaways**
- **Assent** is the client's **ongoing agreement** to participate.
- **Withdrawal** can be words, turning away, pushing materials or leaving.
- Respond by **pausing and adjusting**, not pushing through.
- Build assent into **plans, training and data**.

## What does assent look like?

Signs of assent often include approaching the teaching area, engaging with materials, smiling or relaxed posture, and choosing to continue. Signs of withdrawal include saying no, turning or moving away, pushing materials away, crying, or increased distress.[1]

Building rapport and gaining assent before starting services is part of the RBT 2026 training.[3]

## Why does assent matter?

The BACB Ethics Code asks behavior analysts to treat clients with compassion, dignity and respect.[2] Assent-based practice puts that into action, and it responds to concerns raised by autistic adults about older, rigid approaches.

## How do I build assent into sessions?

**Try:**
- Offering choices of activity, order and reinforcer
- A visible way to ask for a break
- Pairing yourself and the space with good things
- Visual schedules so the session is predictable

**Skip:**
- Physically guiding through a task after refusal (outside safety plans)
- Blocking exits to keep a client at the table
- Ignoring distress to finish trials

**Teach a break request early.** A "break" card or button gives clients a clear, respected way to withdraw assent, and it's a powerful communication
  skill.

## How do I build it into plans and supervision?

- Add **assent signals** and responses to each client's plan
- Train RBTs to **recognize and respond** to withdrawal
- Record assent in **session data**
- Review patterns: frequent withdrawal is information about the plan[1]

**Talk with caregivers.** Explain assent-based practice to families and ask what signals their child uses at home.

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] List assent and withdrawal signals for one client
- [ ] Add a break request to their visual supports
- [ ] Train your team on responding to withdrawal

Read next: [What is the BACB Ethics Code?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/bacb-ethics-code)

## Common questions

### Is assent the same as consent?

No. Consent is typically given by a legal guardian. Assent is the client's own agreement, which you watch for moment to moment.

### What if a client withdraws assent during an important goal?

Pause and look at why. Adjust the demand, the reinforcement, the environment or the goal itself. Safety situations follow your crisis plan and policies.

### How do I document assent?

Many teams add assent notes to session data: signs of assent, withdrawal, and what staff did in response. This helps the BCBA adjust the plan.

## Sources

1. Breaux CA, Smith K. Assent in applied behaviour analysis and positive behaviour support: ethical considerations and practical recommendations. International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, 2023. https://doi.org/10.1080/20473869.2022.2144969
2. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: Ethics codes. https://www.bacb.com/ethics-information/ethics-codes/
3. Behavior Analyst Certification Board: RBT 2026 40-hour training requirements and curriculum outline. https://www.bacb.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2026-RBT-40-Hour-Training-Curriculum-260313-a.pdf

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.