ABA Mythbusting: Can ABA Support Individuality?

Every individual experiences the world through their own lens, with their own individual interests, hobbies, and passions that guide their behavior. For autistic individuals, often these interests and behaviors can be especially intense or focused. 

It may be motivating for parents of autistic children with intense interests to hear that this behavior can be modified using Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). This method of treatment is widely used to guide behaviors while honoring individuality. However, some still argue that ABA leads to the masking of autistic traits and one’s individuality. 

So, what’s the truth? In this blog, we’ll bust the myth that ABA therapy represses originality, and instead demonstrate how it can be used to encourage individuality. 

HOW TO USE ABA TO ENCOURAGE INDIVIDUALITY

The argument remains that autistic individuals don’t have enough of a say in preserving their individuality. While this has certainly been a part of some ABA practices, it should not be so. In reality, ABA can and should be used as a vehicle to teach skills which allow people with autism to be their individual, authentic selves.

As Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) work to design and oversee the care of autistic individuals, they have a responsibility to ensure that their treatment plan not only leaves room for individuality, but also encourages it. 

For example, if an individual receiving ABA care has an interest in oceans and marine life, why not use that as a tool to shape new skills? A BCBA could work with the individual on building expressive language through labeling sea animals. Or, to increase attending and receptive language, they can receptively identify marine organisms. 

An intense interest is an opportunity for the individual to share about themselves with others, learn about how others react to their interest, and discover how they can engage and relate while staying true to themselves. Rather than repressing originality, we can look to utilize individual interests as a way to make life more enjoyable and learning more applicable.    

INDIVIDUALITY: OUR GUIDING FOCUS AT DASHI RIVERS AUTISM CARE

Individuality and originality shouldn’t be repressed in autistic individuals receiving ABA, it should be encouraged. This is an underpinning philosophy at Dashi Rivers as we prepare to launch our ABA therapy practice in early 2023, serving eastern Washtenaw and western Wayne counties in Michigan. Learn more at www.dashirivers.com