Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a very popular form of behavioral therapy that has been used successfully for many people with autism. It is a process that enhances positive behavior while diminishing the effects of aggressive or unwanted behavior. Because it is a process that focuses on endorsing the right kinds of reactions in a variety of situations, it has become a very popular way to help someone with autism to handle their every day challenges.
How It Works
One of the reasons ABA therapy is so effective is because it breaks down every behavior into a series of short steps that are easy to learn. As each step is successfully completed, there is a reward involved. When the process is done for that activity, the steps are all put together and the reinforced good activity is able to help repel any distractions or unwanted responses.
Improves Social Interaction
ABA therapy shines in a variety of environments, but where it is most effective is in social situations. A person with autism can gradually learn the best responses for social situations, and they can learn to seamlessly transition from one situation to the next. With ABA therapy, it is possible to learn to filter out distractions and enjoy social interactions much more. It also helps when it comes to meeting new people and making new friends.
Benefits For Learning
Learning new ideas takes time for someone with autism, and ABA therapy can help speed up the process and make it more effective. ABA therapy makes it easier to focus on the information being taught and to block out any distractions. It helps the student to more easily absorb the material, and it associates learning with positive behavior.
Learning To Communicate
One of the social situations that ABA can help with on a large scale is communication. It is important that someone with autism learn the patience and skills necessary to communicate with others. By isolating those skills and helping to block out distractions, ABA allows the student to engage in conversation and communicate in a productive manner.
ABA therapy will also enhance a person’s ability to listen and accept information more effectively. It is an ideal situation to find something that can help to improve two-way communication skills, and that is exactly what ABA therapy is designed to do.
So Many Possibilities
ABA therapy is designed to help improve communication skills, motor skills, the ability for someone to care for themselves, recreation skills (such as play), the ability to interpret situations and verbal cues, and so many other important skills. It can help someone with autism to learn the skills they need to learn to enjoy life more and get more out of every interaction.
There is no one perfect way to teach the skills that will help someone to get more out of life. ABA therapy is one option that can, over a long period of time, significantly enhance a person’s life. When a person with autism learns how to focus in on the positive things in life and filter out the negative, their ability to enjoy the world around them increases dramatically.
Eden II Programs helps the autism community by providing programs and services combined with lifespan support to improve the quality of life for individuals with ASD and their families. Eden II has the greatest ability to help individuals with ASD reach their highest potential for independent, self-sustained living through high-quality ABA services, educational programs, adult day programs, group residential care, family support, respite, and a number of other services. Eden II Programs uses the evidence-based practices of ABA to develop skills, promote independence, and change lives for the better.
For information on programs and services available at Eden II, please visit us online at eden2.org or email us at info@eden2.org.
