About Applied Behavior Analysis

Applied behavior analysis is a behavioral therapy for children with autism. The therapy was developed in the 1960s by Ole Ivar Lovaas

The Norwegian-American clinical psychologist spent almost 50 years studying strategies to improve the lives of children with autism. After decades of research, he created ABA.

Applied behavior analysis is a form of positive reinforcement. The treatment involves rewarding children for certain behaviors, with the idea that this will encourage patients to repeat those behaviors

In other words, when you reward a child for making eye contact or saying thank you, those behaviors may increase. Alternatively, when you don’t reinforce those behaviors, those behaviors may decrease

Applied behavior analysis can help children with autism:

• Decrease negative behaviors like self-harm

• Increase positive behaviors like self-regulation

• Apply learned behaviors in new environments

• Strengthen communication, language processing, and social interactions

Is ABA Therapy Harmful?

Applied behavior analysis is not harmful.

In the past, some communities found it controversial. Positive reinforcement is also used in animal training, and initially, not everyone approved of the parallels. A tailored intervention, however, recognizes the patient’s humanity. ABA isn’t “drilled” into children with ASD. Instead, it acknowledges that all individuals have their own needs, emotions, and preferences.

Visit our website natautism.com to read more.