Importance of Applied Behavior Analysis for People with Autism
Applied behavior analysis is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior. The behavior analysis helps one understand how behavior works, how it takes place and how it is affected by the surrounding environment. The goal usually is to increase the helpful behaviors and decrease the ones that are harmful. Autism, on the other hand, is a developmental disorder that is characterized by difficulties with communication and social interaction and by repetitive and restricted behavior. ABA therapy, therefore, focuses on improving attention, social skills and also memory. It also helps in increasing communication skills and decreases the problem behaviors. Below I will discuss the importance of ABA therapy.
First, it prepares and molds them to be their own best advocates. Every child deserves a chance to learn and more so a chance to be able to shine and show people what he or she can do. Self-advocacy is not only for those who are fluent but even those with autism for competence begets self-advocacy. Behavioral intervention is the way to competence hence therapy helps in a big way. It also helps them to be able to move around and try to communicate without the help of a guardian or parent. This is a form of independence since the parents will not be there always. ABA therapy prepares them for such occasions too.
Secondly, it helps in improving their social skills. By learning their behavior one can be able to interact with them more hence being able to decrease the problem behavior. Like therapists are able to learn the antecedent, that is the behavior before a certain event happens. The behavior itself and the consequence which is a follow-up action. Once you have knowledge of this, they get a reward for good behavior whereas the inappropriate response is met with no reaction. The therapist is then able to develop strategies that may boost their behavior. The strategies also could decrease the negative behaviors. Positive reinforcement should be able to help in the process. This might help even in exhibiting socially appropriate behavior.
Thirdly, they need ABA since they are also human and for them to cope well with other people. They need to have human contact and with the help of therapy sessions, they are able to learn. The autism spectrum is a subset of the human spectrum therefore, if we deny humanity of individuals with autism, we deny them the process of learning. the behavioral scientists have shown how humans learn and they also deserve a chance. It also helps them learn basic things like how to use the washrooms and they can even take themselves to bed. Therapies are also the best that the parents can give to their children so as to help them grow and learn more.
Lastly works. There are a couple of testimonials from parents that have enrolled their children to such therapies. This gives hope to the parents that may be looking for a way to help their child. Let’s create awareness so as to be able to help children living with autism.