Autism Spectrum Disorder – Applied Behavioral Analysis
Early intensive behavioral interventions can help young children with autism spectrum disorder gain skills and improve long-term outcomes.
Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is currently considered the gold-standard treatment for autism spectrum disorder. ABA is a methodology based on learning theory principles that teaches skills and decreases maladaptive behaviors through repetition and reinforcement.
REFERENCE: CONTINUUM: Lifelong Learning in Neurology: February 2018
It can be used to improve communication, socialization, adaptive behaviors, and cognition.
ABA can be delivered in an outpatient clinical setting, in the home, or in school. Other approaches are also available, such as Floor-time, Play-Therapy and other Behavior Interventions.The goal is to
target core autism deficits of social engagement, emotional thinking, and social skills.REFERENCE: CONTINUUM: Lifelong Learning in Neurology: February 2018