What it IS:
A science
Applied Behavior Analysis’ claim as an approach firmly rooted in science is often cited. ABA qualifies as a science because of its’ use of scientific methods of inquiry. At the same time, there are many untruths surrounding ABA. In this post I hope to clear up confusion to the question, “What is ABA?”
A behavior analyst begins their assessment by directly observing and interacting with the child. Next, interviews with family and other relevant persons about areas of behavioral concern follows. Then he or she will review prior documentation, if any. For instance, medical/school record and treatment notes. A hypothesis is formed. An intervention from basic principles of behavior is put in place. Checks of the behavior(s) under focus continues throughout therapy. The behavior analyst will observe during technician-led therapy sessions. Subsequently, revisit session data to see if positive behavior change is occurring. Some behaviors may worsen before they improve. Or remain unchanged. For these reasons, the child’s treatment plan may look very different from what was originally in place.
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Individualized
Goals are specific to areas of behavioral concern the family and applied behavior analyst mutually agree on. Of course the child’s age and developmental level also guide the process. Also, their medical history and other conditions. Goals on communication or self-care may be selected. As well as those which reduce behavioral excess. Since overreacting behaviors hamper learning. All will be tailored to the best interest of the child.
Doable
t is helpful for the family and those in regular contact with your child to have a basic understanding of behavioral principles. Many, if not all, clinics offer informational trainings specifically on behavioral strategies. These take place either on or off-site. Suggestions for managing distressing behavior may be discussed. By all means, arrange to have others attend the meeting with you too. Extended family, teachers, counselors, or therapists concerned about your child’s progress would be happy to attend. Without a doubt, awareness of the workings of ABA is easy with a behavior analyst at the helm to educate and enlighten.
What it ISN’T:
Solely for autistics
A therapy which incorporates Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is widely accepted as a therapeutic approach for autistic children. In fact, there are many who benefit from such a therapy. ABA strategies have successfully helped many with developmental, neurological, physical, mental, or sensory impairments. Also, juvenile offenders and students. Moreover, people have incorporated the methods in the areas of habit cessation, health, productivity, and interpersonal relationships. (Sulzer-Azaroff & Mayer, 1991)
Restrictive
Initial ABA therapy can appear intensive to the observer. A session may include Discrete Trial Training (DTT) in which the therapist gives the learner a small task to do. The therapist says what the child is to do in as few words as possible. Seeing that a child may not follow the instruction at first, a therapist may repeat the phrase or model what he expects. What mostly follows a child’s completion of a task, or lack of thereof, is namely, guidance, praise, or another task. Or, a brief play break. Either at, or away from the table. DTT moves at a brisk pace. As a result, this keeps the child’s attention for longer intervals than one would normally expect from young children.
Play-based forms of behavioral therapy provide more of a child-driven approach. Look for a behavior analyst trained in Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) or Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT). During this type of therapy, the child’s shifts in play and routines guides the sessions. Parents are encouraged to actively participate in therapy as well. Both are also evidenced-based.
Rest assured, applied behavior analysts continually check for restrictiveness in their treatment plans. Certainly, ethical standards dictate behaviors targeted for change, and the procedures to accomplish this change, are to be mutually acceptable by all involved.
Bribery
Keeping a learner with a diagnosed disorder focused on learning is challenging. So, the therapist rewards beginning successes with praise, a high-five, or a bite of applesauce. Some liken this to bribery. However, bribery is when a child is misbehaving. The child is told they will be rewarded after they do what they are instructed to do. (Leaf & McEachin, 1999.) Whereas, with ABA therapy in which only appropriate responding receives positive reinforcement. Also, the child is not told is no mention it is forthcoming. To sum up, reinforcement is the crux of behavior change and crucial to skill development.
References
Cooper J.O, Heron T.E, Heward W.L. Applied behavior analysis (2nd ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson; 2007.
Leaf R, McEachin J. A work in progress. New York: Different Roads to Learning, INC.; 1999.
Sulzer-Azaroff, B., & Mayer, G. R. Behavior analysis for lasting change. New York, NY, US: Holt, Rinehart & Winston; 1991.