As parents of autistic children, one of the biggest responsibilities we have is to ensure that our children receive the best therapy and support personalized to their needs. From speech and occupational therapy to applied behavior analysis or ABA therapy, these are established treatments with a long history of success and positive outcomes.
But what happens when you learn that what is considered the pinnacle of autism therapy, ABA, could be harmful? Do you believe what you read, or do you ignore it? The answer may not be so evident.
Is ABA therapy bad? At Heartlinks, we answer with a resounding ‘no!’. But then, why has ABA therapy received criticism from professionals? Read on to learn more.
Why Is ABA Therapy Considered Harmful by Some?
From its origins to its current state, the history of ABA therapy has not been without its detractors, who have used the following arguments against it. The debate often centers not on ABA itself but on how it’s implemented. Is ABA problematic? Critics argue that the potential harm comes from the fundamental principles of ABA.
ABA Seeks to Suppress Autistic Traits
Skeptics argue that ABA techniques like negative reinforcement may encourage people to mask their autistic traits and conform to neurotypical behaviors out of fear of reprimand. This forced masking can contribute to autistic burnout, which is a state of chronic exhaustion and distress caused by prolonged suppression of natural behaviors.
This criticism usually stems from a lack of understanding of ABA’s goals, implying there’s a one-size-fits-all approach to autism, thereby raising concern about the level of neurodiversity acceptance level in ABA therapy.
Yes, one of the fundamental goals of ABA is to eliminate common autism symptoms, such as stimming sensory-seeking behaviors, and help with emotional regulation. However, ABA is also designed to give children the skills to develop relationships and live independently.
It Causes PTSD and Trauma
“Too rigid” is a comment critics of ABA therapy have launched against it, arguing that it’s more focused on meeting therapeutic expectations than nurturing the child. Detractors say that its rigid approach is challenging for nonverbal children or those on the spectrum with difficulty communicating. Some have expressed worries that specific ABA techniques could lead to anxiety, PTSD, or depression in autistic children and adults.
Yet, it’s essential to remember that ABA therapy seeks to establish a warm environment where learning is enjoyable and engaging. Today’s ABA therapists are trained to customize their treatments to the needs of their young clients.
It’s Too Expensive and Time-Consuming
ABA therapy is recognized for its intensive, skill-building approach, which many advocates believe is crucial to fostering independence and improving quality of life. Supporters, including Heartlinks, emphasize that consistent, daily practice is essential for developing independent living skills.
Yet, some families face challenges accessing ABA therapy, partly due to financial and time constraints. The cost of ABA therapy is significant, with some families paying thousands of dollars per month, creating a major obstacle for those without insurance coverage or whose claims have been denied.
Additionally, the time commitment, ranging from 20 to 40 hours per week, can feel intensive, particularly for young children. Some question whether such an intense schedule is necessary for children and whether it allows them enough time to be kids, enjoy unstructured play time, have natural social interactions, and be creative.
Despite these concerns, many families find that ABA therapy’s personalized, goal-oriented approach brings meaningful progress, helping individuals build confidence and essential life skills.
What Are The Proven Benefits of ABA Therapy?
ABA therapy is considered one of the most effective treatments for autism. It can take many different forms, from in-home and classroom to naturalistic. But, the primary goals remain the same: developing social and motor skills, promoting independent living, and improving communication. The most significant benefits of ABA therapy include the following.
Scientifically Validated
ABA has strong scientific validation, supported by decades of research demonstrating its effectiveness in addressing various behavioral challenges. One of the earliest and most cited studies is the Lovaas (1987) study, which examined the effects of intensive ABA therapy on 59 autistic children ages 3-5. 47% of the children who received 40 hours per week of ABA showed significant improvements in developing what is considered a “normal” IQ and integrating into mainstream classrooms, compared to 2% in the control group.
Data-Driven Approach
ABA is naturally data-driven and designed to allow therapists to continuously assess and adjust strategies based on each child’s progress. It relies on different types of objective measurement, such as discontinuous measurement, to monitor progress, assess behavior changes, and ensure effective interventions.
Personalization of Treatment Plans
This therapy focuses on creating personalized treatment plans tailored to the individual needs of the child on the spectrum. In essence, ABA therapy is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Personalization begins when your child’s certified therapist assesses to establish custom goals based on their unique strengths and challenges. Then, appropriate teaching methods are chosen, from discrete trial training (DTT) to discriminative stimulus, and tools like social stories may be included to help the child navigate social situations and improve communication skills.
Reinforcement strategies are customized to a child’s motivators, whether utilizing token economy therapy or providing enjoyable sensory-seeking activities. When administered correctly, ABA therapy is unmatched in its adaptability.
Heartlinks: Your ABA Therapy Solution
At Heartlinks ABA, we believe in providing personalized, data-driven therapy customized to your child’s strengths and areas of improvement. ABA therapy is highly effective in helping children with autism or developmental delays improve their life skills, manage emotions, and create meaningful social connections.
Our team provides ABA services at Heartlinks that prioritize collaboration with families, ensuring parents become active partners in their child’s therapy journey. By offering individualized assessments and trial sessions, our board-certified therapists design programs to align with your child’s needs.
We have locations in Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, and Indiana, each with the same focus: to help your child reach their full potential in a supportive, engaging, and compassionate way. Contact us to learn more about how ABA can help your child.