ABA is considered a standard approach for individuals with autism used to improve behavior of importance that are socially significant.Applied Behavior Analysis is a scientific approach that utilizes evidence-based practices and offers empirical basis for diagnosis, assessment, and instruction for individuals with autism (Wolfe et al., 2005). Evidence-based practices are highly valued across various professions and is the foundation of effective treatment that helps maximize outcomes of an intervention (Leaf et al., 2022).
“Evidence-based practices are the practices based on a) best scientific evidence b) practitioner’s or clinician’s experience and expertise, and c) client values” (Leaf et al., 2022).
Furthermore, behaviors that are targeted to change are the behaviors that can be observed, measured, and defined. The study of behavior requires precise measurement and thorough assessment done by behavior analysts (Matson, 2009). Applied behavior analysis (ABA) utilizes various approaches in which behavior of interest are measured to address social, communication, behavioral deficits and excesses exhibited by individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (Matson, 2009). As a result, ABA approaches promote the well-being of the individuals and enhance the quality of living of an individual with autism spectrum disorder.
References
Hyman, S.L., Levy, S.E., Myers, S.M., & AAP Council on Children with Disabilities, Section on developmental and behavioral pediatrics. (2020). Identification, evaluation, and management of children with autism spectrum disorder. Pediatrics, 145(1), e20193447.’
Leaf, J. B., Cihon, J. H., Ferguson, J. L., & Weiss, M. J. (2022). Handbook of Applied Behavior Analysis Interventions for Autism: Integrating Research into Practice (1st ed.). Springer International Publishing AG. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-96478-8
Matson, J. L. (Ed.). (2009). Applied Behavior Analysis for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (1st ed. 2009.). Springer New York. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-0088-3
Wolfe, P., & Neisworth, J. T. (2005). Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis. Exceptionality : The Official Journal of the Division for Research of the Council for Exceptional Children, 13(1), 1–2. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15327035ex1301_1
