Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)--More Info

We apply the science of behavior to the treatment and education of children with special needs including autism spectrum disorders. We assess your child to determine his or her individual strengths and weaknesses. Then we design a treatment program based on your child’s specific needs. Our therapists work one-on-one with your child employing a variety of behavioral principles such as positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement includes verbal praise (such as, “good job!”), access to desired items (for example, playing with a favorite toy), or access to desired activities (such as jumping on a trampoline). The therapist takes data on throughout the session to monitor the child’s progress.

Below are two examples of therapists working with children using ABA. The first example is a child with fewer skills and the second example is a child with more skills.

Example 1

Two-year-old Jonah does not imitate motor movements. To improve this skill Jonah’s therapist is targeting: imitate clap. The therapist verbally instructs Jonah, “do this,” as she claps her hands. Initially the therapist must physically prompt Jonah’s hands into a clapping motion. Now she praises Jonah, “nice job clapping your hands!” After several trials she might give Johan a toy dump truck to play with as she praises his clapping. Soon the therapist can fade her prompt to a slight touch on Jonah’s arms as he claps. Finally, Jonah imitates the therapist’s clap independently.

Example 2

Four-year-old Hannah uses full sentences to talk to her family and ask for the things she needs. She plays appropriately with toys and follows her mother’s directions. She does not play with peers, however, and she does not have conversations with other children. The therapist works with Hannah and a peer to increase Hannah’s play initiations. The therapist might begin by modeling the behavior for Hannah. The therapist taps the peer on the shoulder and says, “Hey Charlie! Do you want to play dinosaurs with me?” Charlie says yes and they go off in search of dinosaurs. Now the therapist says, “It’s your turn Hannah. Gently tap Charlie on the shoulder to get his attention. Then look at his eyes and ask him if he wants to play dinosaurs with you.” The therapist watches Hannah and only intervenes if Hannah needs assistance initiating with Charlie. The therapist would praise Hannah’s effort, “I love the way you got Charlie’s attention and asked him to play.” Finally, Hannah, Charlie and the therapist play dinosaurs together.

Applied Behavior Analysis is considered the most effective treatment for children with autism spectrum disorders. Decades of research have demonstrated that intensive ABA programs result in significant improvements in the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder including delays in: speech and language, social skills, play skills, self-help skills, and academics.

Research

There is a wealth of research on Applied Behavior Analysis as a treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Several of the more famous studies are listed below.

The often-quoted 1987 Lovaas study included children with Autism Spectrum Disorders enrolled in an intensive 40 hour per week ABA therapy program. 90% of the children improved as a result of treatment and half of the children improved dramatically. Lovaas, O. I. (1987). Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 55, 3-9.

Many reputable studies have determined early intensive ABA therapy is far more effective than other, more eclectic, approaches to the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders and other similar social/cognitive disorders. Eikeseth, Svein, Smith, Tristram, & Eldevik, Erik Jahr Sigmund. (2002). Behavior Modification, 26, 49-68.

In 2000 the United States Surgeon General referenced the Lovaas tudies and recommended early intensive behavioral therapy to treat the symptoms of Autism Spectrum disorder. Go to www.SurgeronGeneral.gov for more information.