As the number of autism cases continues to rise in the United States, the demand for effective care and support for individuals with autism has become increasingly crucial. Early detection and management are key in providing the necessary care, making the role of board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs), behavior technicians (BTs), and registered behavior therapists (RBTs) paramount. However, misconceptions about ABA therapy and its practitioners still persist. Read on to learn more about some ABA common myths debunked, with a clear understanding of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.
The Science of ABA
ABA therapy is a science-based approach that focuses on changing socially significant behaviors. It emerged in 1968 as a branch of psychology and has since become a widely accepted and evidence-based intervention for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. ABA therapists begin their assessment by closely observing and interacting with the individual, followed by interviews with family members and a review of relevant documentation. Based on this information, a hypothesis is formed, and a treatment plan is developed using established principles of behavior.
What Does ABA Therapy Look Like?
ABA therapy employs a system of positive reinforcement to encourage appropriate behavior. When a child successfully completes an activity, they are rewarded with access to preferred activities. Through constant assessment of the child’s interests, therapists aim to expand the range of preferred activities, motivating children to actively participate in learning tasks.
Children undergoing ABA therapy learn that by actively participating in therapy, they gain access to activities they enjoy. This positive reinforcement strategy encourages children to persevere through challenging tasks and actively engage in the learning process. ABA therapists also focus on teaching children the skill of requesting and returning to work. By appropriately responding to requests to return to tasks, children develop the ability to tolerate being away from preferred activities for longer periods of time.
ABA therapy aims to equip children with the skills necessary for independent functioning. As children progress through therapy, they become more self-reliant and capable of advocating for their needs. ABA therapists work closely with children to teach them the importance of following through on activities while also recognizing the value of self-advocacy and seeking additional support when needed.
Individualized Treatment
ABA therapy emphasizes individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs and goals of the individual. These goals are determined through a collaborative process involving the family and the behavior analyst. Factors such as the individual’s age, developmental level, medical history, and other conditions are taken into account when designing the treatment plan. Goals may include improving communication skills, promoting self-care abilities, and reducing challenging behaviors that hinder learning. The focus is always on the best interest of the individual.
Clarifying Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions and myths when it comes to ABA. Parents may have heard that ABA clinicians are glorified babysitters, that ABA is harmful, or that it fits a one-size-fits-all treatment plan, none of which are true. Read below to learn about some of the misconceptions of ABA, debunked.
ABA Is Not Just for Autism
While ABA therapy is widely recognized as an effective intervention for individuals with autism, it is not limited to this population. ABA strategies have been successfully implemented in various settings, including education, organizational behavior analysis, behavioral medicine, and more. ABA techniques have proven beneficial for individuals with developmental, neurological, physical, mental, or sensory impairments, as well as for juvenile offenders, students, and those seeking personal growth in areas such as habit cessation, health, productivity, and interpersonal relationships.
ABA Is More Than Discrete Trials
Discrete trials are just one tool within the ABA toolkit. A common misconception is that ABA therapy solely relies on discrete trial training (DTT), where a therapist presents a task and reinforces correct responses. However, ABA encompasses a range of instructional strategies, including naturalistic approaches like pivotal response training (PRT) and incidental teaching. These approaches allow for child-driven learning and active parental participation. ABA therapy is adaptable and utilizes a variety of techniques based on the individual’s needs and learning style.
ABA is Highly Individualized
Contrary to the belief that ABA follows a one-size-fits-all approach, it is a highly individualized therapy. Decisions about intervention strategies and instructional methods are based on the data collected from the individual’s progress. If a particular approach is not yielding positive results, ABA therapists will modify the instruction and problem-solve to address the individual’s unique needs. Flexibility and responsiveness to the learner’s progress are key principles of ABA therapy.
ABA Uses Reinforcement, Not Bribery
Reinforcement is a fundamental aspect of ABA therapy, but it is often misunderstood as bribery. ABA therapists use reinforcement techniques to increase desired behaviors, but the goal is to fade the use of reinforcement over time. Reinforcers are carefully selected and are not limited to tangible rewards like treats. They can include praise, high-fives, access to preferred activities, or any other positive consequence that motivates the individual. ABA clinicians follow specific procedures to fade reinforcement gradually and promote independent functioning.
ABA Focuses on Natural Behavior
Some misconceptions suggest that ABA forces individuals to engage in unnatural behaviors. However, ABA therapy is rooted in teaching functional skills that are meaningful and relevant to the individual’s everyday life. The skills taught are based on curricula and are determined collaboratively with the team involved, such as parents or caregivers and professionals. ABA therapists prioritize teaching skills that promote independence, social interactions, and overall well-being. The focus is on empowering the individual rather than enforcing compliance.
The Impact and Effectiveness of ABA Therapy
The effectiveness of ABA therapy is well-documented and supported by extensive research. ABA therapists undergo rigorous training in research designs and data collection and analysis. They base their interventions on scientific evidence and constantly evaluate the progress of the individual. This commitment to scientific rigor has contributed to ABA therapy being recognized as one of the most evidence-based interventions for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. The positive outcomes experienced by individuals who have received ABA therapy further solidify its effectiveness.
The Role of ABA Therapists
ABA therapists play a pivotal role in providing quality care and support to individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. They possess a unique combination of skills, including experience in childcare and a genuine interest in the field of psychology. ABA therapy serves as a potential career path, offering opportunities for growth and specialization. ABA therapists can pursue advanced positions such as earning a Ph.D. in board-certified behavior analysis.
All therapists must be trained and licensed in some capacity. RBTs must possess at least a high school education, must be certified, and must be licensed in their state. BCBAs must possess at least a master’s degree in behavioral science after their high school and undergraduate education. They must also be certified and licensed by the state. The training and role of BTs varies by state, but they must be registered with the state typically after having a background check performed.
Recruiting the Best ABA Therapists
Recruiting qualified and dedicated ABA therapists is crucial for delivering effective therapy and ensuring continuity of care. To attract ideal candidates, it is essential to communicate the realities of the position, including the challenges and rewards. Providing a clear understanding of the work environment and the necessary qualifications can help applicants make informed decisions. Effective employer branding, highlighting the company’s culture of support, training, and education, can attract candidates genuinely interested in pursuing a career in ABA therapy.
ABA Clinicians Are Clinicians
It’s surprising how many parents think ABA clinicians are therapists can also take over babysitting duties, or they may consider ABA clinicians “glorified babysitters,” as it can often be coined on the internet.
However, all types of ABA clinicians, from Ph.D. BCBAs to BTs, are formally trained in the science of behavior and learning, and all of the tasks they’re performing with your child are part of the treatment plan.
While parents may be looking for a “break” while the ABA therapist is in the home, parents should ideally be part of in-home sessions and should undergo parent training so that they can carry over ABA tenets when the therapist is not present.
It’s a poor idea to set up ABA therapy at a time you have to run errands or you’re otherwise occupied in the house. While you don’t have to be side-by-side with your child and their clinician during session, it’s important to be available and a part of sessions.
It’s also imperative that an adult is home during ABA sessions. There are liability, legal, and insurance issues surrounding leaving your child alone with an ABA clinician. Even if you’ve been working with your treatment team for a while and you trust them implicitly, no, unfortunately, you can’t run to the store during treatment sessions. Not only does it go against ethical standards, you could be missing out on important feedback and information given during the session that can help you better interact with your child when ABA is not in session.
ABA therapy is a science-based intervention that has proven to be highly effective in supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. By understanding the principles and debunking common misconceptions, we can ensure that ABA therapy is recognized for its potential beyond autism and implemented in a way that is individualized, evidence-based, and respectful of the individual’s needs and goals. With dedicated ABA therapists, we can provide the support and care necessary for individuals to thrive and reach their full potential.
To learn more about applied behavior analysis and early intervention or to set up an evaluation for your child, contact one of the professionals at Acclaim Autism today.
Note: ABA therapy is a continually evolving field, and it is essential to stay updated with current research and best practices. This guide provides a comprehensive overview but should not substitute for professional advice or consultation.
References
Applied Behavior Analysis. (n.d.). American Psychological Association. Retrieved December 1, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/about/policy/applied-behavior-analysis
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Cleveland Clinic. (2023a, August 16). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/25197-applied-behavior-analysis
Gitimoghaddam, M., Chichkine, N., McArthur, L., Sangha, S. S., & Symington, V. (2022). Applied Behavior Analysis in children and youth with autism spectrum disorders: A scoping review. Perspectives on Behavior Science, 45(3), 521-557. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40614-022-00338-x
Makrygianni, M. K., Gena, A., Katoudi, S., & Galanis, P. (2018). The effectiveness of applied behavior analytic interventions for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A meta-analytic study. Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders, 51, 18-31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rasd.2018.03.006
