Does ABA Therapy Help Children or Does It Just Train Them?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a highly structured approach commonly used to support individuals, especially those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). But does ABA therapy truly help children or does it merely train them? This article delves into the multifaceted role ABA plays in child development and explores the perspective that focuses more on strict training than holistic support.

The Benefits of ABA Therapy

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is designed to help children, particularly those with ASD, by teaching useful skills and enhancing their overall functioning. Here’s a breakdown of how ABA therapy supports children through various aspects:

1. Skill Development

Communication Skills: ABA can improve both verbal and non-verbal communication, aiding children in expressing their needs and interacting with others. Social Skills: It teaches children how to engage in social interactions, understand social cues, and develop friendships. Daily Living Skills: ABA can help children learn essential life skills such as self-care, organization, and following routines.

2. Behavior Management

Reducing Challenging Behaviors: ABA techniques can help decrease undesirable behaviors such as tantrums and aggression by understanding their triggers and teaching alternative behaviors. Positive Reinforcement: ABA uses reinforcement strategies to encourage positive behaviors, making it more likely that these behaviors will be repeated.

3. Individualized Approach

Tailored Programs: ABA therapy is customized to meet the unique needs of each child, focusing on their specific challenges and strengths. Data-Driven: Therapists collect data to monitor progress and adjust strategies, ensuring that the therapy remains effective.

4. Generalization of Skills

Real-Life Application: ABA focuses on helping children apply learned skills in various settings, promoting independence and adaptability.

A Different Perspective: It Only Trains Them

While ABA therapy does involve training children in specific skills and behaviors, some argue that it may not ‘help’ children in the holistic sense. Sources that advocate for this view suggest that ABA therapy can be seen primarily as a form of training rather than a supportive approach aimed at empowerment.

The Impact on Autistic Children

One perspective argues that even those who didn't receive ABA therapy were taught the same message: to be comfortable being their authentic selves. According to this viewpoint, the core message from parents, guardians, teachers, and other influential figures is that autistic individuals must adapt to societal norms and expectations. This includes:

Tolerating certain sensory input without complaint. Suppressing emotions to avoid discomfort for others. Accepting others' intentions and vibes, even when they may raise red flags emotionally.

This approach can be seen as training rather than genuine support because it emphasizes compliance with external expectations rather than fostering self-awareness and self-expression. Moreover, it may not fully consider the individual's needs and emotional well-being.

Training Dogs vs. Training Autistic Children

An interesting comparison can be drawn between training dogs and autistic children. Just as we teach dogs to respond to commands and only reward them when they comply, we do the same with autistic children. However, the expectation of dogs to suppress their natural instincts and behavior is more severe than with autistic individuals.

We do teach dogs to communicate and behave in specific ways to avoid upsetting humans. Similarly, we teach autistic children to respond to commands and follow routines, but the underlying message is often one of compliance over self-expression. This perspective argues that autistic children are being trained to suppress their natural behaviors to fit societal norms, which can ultimately stifle their true potential and emotional well-being.

Conclusion

While ABA therapy does involve training in specific skills and behaviors, its core goal is to support children in their overall development, improve their quality of life, and help them navigate social environments more effectively. However, it is crucial to consider the potential drawbacks of focusing too heavily on training and acknowledge the importance of fostering individuality and self-expression in children with ASD.