Applied behavior analysis is a treatment used most commonly for autistic children to reward positive behaviors. ABA uses techniques to reinforce desired behaviors and replace unfavorable ones for long-term change. It can also be used on children with learning delays, speech impediments or other disabilities.
Significance of Behavior Training
ABA helps improve behavior by teaching new skills, self-control, the ability to generalize from one situation to another and a reduction of undesired or destructive behaviors. ABA has well-documented results for improving a wide range of behaviors.
Types of Skills Improved
ABA breaks things down into smaller steps to learn skills for speech, self-care, and social, academic and independent living. Its techniques can help someone improve in all areas of life by learning new behaviors. For example, if a child needs to learn how to greet other children, the ABA therapist can model "Hi" or "Hi Alex" with eye contact and a handshake. When the child models this, she can get a reward such as a sticker, favorite food or favorite game.
Positive Reinforcers Used
ABA focuses on rewarding desired behaviors. The child can be given the option to pick his reward, such as a favorite toy or game. If the incentive is good enough, the child will work toward the end result. If it's not effective, the child may be unmotivated.
Benefits of ABA
ABA has been used to improve behavior and other skills for decades and shows positive results. With early ABA intervention, 47 percent of children with autism fully recover, according to the founder of The Center for Autism and Related Disorders. ABA uses reliable measurements to evaluate progress and improve a child's behavior. These measurements can be used at home, at school or at play.
Warning on ABA
ABA has been criticized for invoking rote responses or memorized answers. It does not always teach perspective or emotion with the new learned behaviors. Other treatments or therapies may be needed to give the child a well-rounded view of why certain behaviors are preferred. Instead of seeking memorized responses, more and more ABA teachers are working to encourage creativity or spontaneity.
How Much ABA
Research shows that 25 to 40 hours of ABA per week helps a child the most, according to Autism Speaks. The earlier, or younger, the intervention with ABA, the better the results.
Potential of ABA Therapy
The goal of ABA is to enable the child to perform life skills independently and without the aid of a therapist. ABA therapists hope to help the child perform skills successfully in all environments, not just in a therapy room. The treatment can be used in all settings and prepares a child for a variety of work or school environments.
