ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis)
The essential intervention treatment needed for autistic children is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Behavioral analysis is a study to help us understand the child's behavior affected by the environment to accommodate a successful learning process. Applied behavior analysis is a flexible therapy using techniques designed to understand and change inappropriate/incorrect responses/behaviors. The Behavior Analyst (BCBA) can customize programs to help them learn the skills to become more independent and successful through positive rewards and consequences. ABA therapy programs can cover daily life skills; social communication skills, improving attention, memory, and academic skill; last but not least, decreasing problematic behaviors.
Understanding the scenario before the behavior occurred, the response to what had happened, and the consequences for inappropriate/incorrect actions are essential. Parents’/caregivers' input who spent most of the time with the autistic child is crucial to set an efficient ABA program with the BCBA. Their involvement and training are also needed to support the ABA program's consistency and repetition in learning and practicing the skills when the therapist is not around. Trained therapists keep tracking the data as they run the program to monitor the effectiveness and the progress made statistically monitored by the BCBA. Scientific tests have proved this evidence-based treatment as it is the most effective and useful program to improve intellectual and social functioning, language development, and daily life skills.
The research said it takes three weeks for humans to change their behavior consciously. And it takes three months for our 'unconscious brain' to automatically use behavioral change applied in our daily lives. When the child successfully demonstrates the desired behavior goal, the therapist will give positive reinforcement such as playing at the playground, access to a toy/book, or other meaningful rewards. Some ABA programs are limited to certain practices in specific settings. Parents/caregivers can be more creative to expand and modify the ABA program and use the same positive reinforcement techniques in the planned (home/school setting) or naturally occurring environment (playground/museum/library).
It's essential to find a perfect fit for BCBA and therapist for each family to build a good relationship and trust to enjoy the learning process that leads to significant skill progress.