ABA Therapy for Kids: Is the Popularity Justified

Simply put, ABA is a method that changes behavior in kids with autism by using rewards and punishments in a systematic way. It’s all about understanding how they behave and breaking big tasks into smaller parts to make it easier for the child to grasp.

In the past few decades, Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) has become a commonly practiced technique that has helped children with autism everywhere.

However, as ABA has become more widespread, some parents and autism advocates have become critical of the approach, claiming they do not like how ABA methods are used by some practitioners.

Let’s take a look at why people might not find ABA therapy justified.

Is ABA Tough on Children?

Even though using aversive reinforcement is mostly not done anymore, some people still complain that ABA therapy, with its repetitive nature, can be hard on kids. They also say the skills learned may not work in different situations. Furthermore, people often think ABA therapists are strict. 

So, what’s the truth?

Nowadays, many ABA therapists and programs don’t even use the DTT format, where the child sits at a table. They focus on play instead.

While it is said that ABA sessions can be as long as 40 hours per week, ABA therapies are rarely done for that long. Children usually get 10 or 20 hours a week, depending on their behavior or delays. More severe cases get more hours. Typically, therapists see kids every weekday for about two hours.

ABA Focuses on Eliminating Bad Behavior

Some people criticize ABA because certain practitioners don’t always work on developing skills while trying to stop problematic behaviors. Therapists have noticed this issue when they visit schools to help with ABA procedures.

Namely, therapists first check if the main goal is just stopping behaviors. They want to know:

• What are the children learning?
• What should they do instead of having tantrums?
• What are they doing to stop them from trying to leave the building?

The recent objections to ABA come in the form of beliefs that it tries to make autistic people look just like everyone else, which many people don’t agree with. In their eyes, it is discouraging behaviors without recognizing their emotional meaning.

Nevertheless, proper ABA therapy is focused on approaching each child individually and helping them tackle the routines in their own way.

Does ABA Focus on Eliminating Differences Too Much?

Those supporting ABA say it’s not about removing the neurodiversity of autistic children but about helping them become independent. ABA works by adjusting the surroundings to bring about changes in behavior. Therapists aren’t trying to alter the person, their thoughts, or their feelings.

They aim to assist children in living as independently as they can without trying to remove autism. Certain aspects of autism, like how the brain works and thinks, are not seen as negative. They are simply different.

Therefore, therapists use them to teach children how to navigate the world based on their unique thinking. The parents accept this neurodiversity and are learning how to teach their children to be more independent.

ABA and Money Matters

Depending on the state you’re living in, you’ll have access to the funds needed for a certain number of ABA sessions.  For example, ABA therapy in Broward county is subjected to insurance claims and support. Always inquire about the insurances accepted as sometimes not all insurance providers are listed on the ABA therapy sites.

Wrapping up

ABA therapy has its pros and cons, much like any other scientifically based therapy for children on the spectrum. In order for the child to receive the most beneficial treatment, it’s essential to work with professionals in the field who are used to individualized approaches. 

In some places, only ABA treatment is recognized and paid for by states and insurance companies. For example, ABA therapy in Broward county is subjected to insurance claims and support.

This means some children of unapproving parents who could benefit from working with, let’s say, a speech-language pathologist, which might help them use alternative forms of communication, are not getting the attention they need.

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