Autism and Applied Behavior Analysis

Children with autism and other special needs may lack the social skills necessary to thrive in our socially-driven society. Deficits can include lack of eye contact, lack of conversation skills, quick frustration and anger, poor decision-making ability, impulsiveness, inability to read and respond to social cues, and difficulty building relationships. These deficits can lead to severe consequences – depriving children of friends, educational opportunities, and even independence. They can also lead to rigidity in adjusting to changes in routine and environment, resulting in isolation, low self-esteem, and behavioral problems to compensate for lack of comfort in social situations.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy teaches children how to make and maintain relationships while giving them opportunities to practice and maintain these skills. This is accomplished by utilizing role play and group dynamics with other children that share similar struggles. The outcome is improved self-confidence, improved behavior, and better quality of life when the learned skills are carried into their natural environment outside of therapy.

Learn more about how Applied Behavior Analysis works here.