ABA therapy utilizes behavioral principles to set goals, reinforce behaviors, and measure outcomes.
This approach has been described as the “gold standard” in the treatment ofautism.
It is widely used and is associated with improvements in specific skills and decreased problem behaviors.
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At a Glance
ABA therapy is widely used but has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years.
Proponents of ABA therapy suggest that this approach can help people with autism develop new skills.
Later, Ivar Lovaas, PhD, adapted ABA to treat autism.
More recent perspectives emphasize that autism is a form ofneurodivergence.
It is usually highly individualized, intensive, and comprehensive.
It utilizes play activities to help foster cognitive, social, and language skills.
ABA therapy is also often delivered in two different ways.
It can be used as a comprehensive program that provides intensive intervention in many environments and situations.
Or, it can be part of a more focused program that may involve only specific behaviors or situations.
Comprehensive ABA Therapy
This approach delivers treatments that usually last for several hours each day.
It may also focus on specific skills that an individual needs to work on.
Techniques Used in ABA Therapy
ABA therapy usually involves a few different steps.
Treatment plans are tailored to the needs of the individual.
Assessment
Assessment is the first step of ABA therapy.
From this information, the professional will develop a treatment plan.
Treatment
Treatmentwill involve using different techniques to work toward the individual’s goals.
Caregiver Training
Caregiver training involves offering support and training to parents and other caregivers and family members.
It has been linked to improvements in key areas including language, social skills, and adaptive skills.
How those results translate to long-term benefits throughout life is still being examined.
Drawbacks and Criticisms of APA Therapy
However, ABA therapy also has drawbacks that should be considered.
While ABA is widely used today, it’s not without controversy.
More recent approaches focus on either applying or withholding reinforcement and do not involve punishments.
ABA therapy is often focused on getting people to engage in “typical” behaviors.
Today, there is a greater appreciation and value for neurodiversity.
As with othertypes of therapy, trying it and keeping an eye on how things go can be helpful.
ND-Affirming Alternatives to ABA Therapy
Neurodiversity-affirming treatments for autism can be helpful.
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