ABA therapy helps children with autism and can also help with other disorders like ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Many people with autism have found benefits from ABA therapy, giving it a quite good reputation.
Medical institutions often suggest combining behavioral therapy with prescribed medication for people with ADHD. This approach helps to effectively manage symptoms, regardless of how severe they are.
Behavioral therapy has proven highly successful in addressing issues linked to ADHD, making it the preferred method for skill development in individuals with the disorder.
Let’s see how this therapy benefits children with ADHD.
Children With ASD
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition linked to variations in the brain. Individuals with ASD may face difficulties in general interaction, social communication, and may also show repetitive behaviors or limited interests.
Additionally, they might have unique approaches to how they learn, move, or pay attention. It’s worth mentioning that some individuals without ASD may also display similar symptoms.
However, for those with ASD, these traits can pose significant challenges in daily life.
Children With ADHD
ADHD is often diagnosed in children at an early age, and it is linked to challenges with impulse control, making it tough to think before acting. Symptoms also include difficulty paying attention and being easily sidetracked.
The most common symptoms include:
Inability to pay close attention
Often acting on impulse
Being very talkative
Being very hyperactive
Having problems with socializing
ADHD is categorized into three main types: hyperactivity, combined type, and inattention.
Hyperactivity, also called impulsivity, may lead to uncontrollable movements, fidgeting, or difficulty staying still. It can manifest as interrupting others or speaking out of turn.
Combined symptoms occur when hyperactivity and inattention are both present. Inattention and disorganization involve difficulties managing time and completing tasks in an organized manner.
How ABA Therapy Works On Children With ASD & ADHD
According to the CDC, behavioral therapy effectively reduces undesirable behaviors in ADHD patients, similar to its impact on individuals with autism.
Research indicates that a combination of medication along with ABA therapy works well for most children with ADHD, while it has been proven numerous times that it benefits greatly for children with ASD.
However, some kids might be too young for treatment, and parents should seek advice from a doctor for specific age-related prescriptions.
Meanwhile, parents can employ ABA therapy techniques to alleviate these ADHD symptoms.
ABA Therapy Techniques On Children With ASD & ADHD
The aim of ABA therapy is to bring about positive changes in a patient’s behavior through a three-step process, beginning with the antecedent.
The antecedent serves as a signal or instruction, making the individual aware of the consequences of their behaviors. The main focus during this step is on how behaviors are displayed and the resulting outcomes.
Parents and therapists can employ specific techniques to encourage desired behaviors in children.
Here are some widely used unique techniques:
Response training
With this technique, children start with play-based therapy that focuses on key aspects of their cognitive abilities, including social skills and learning capabilities.
In response training, the interventions are neutral, meaning actions taken by therapists and parents are directly linked to the child’s behavior.
If a child requests something appropriately, the therapists respond accordingly based on the context of the interaction. Positive behavior is rewarded only with items relevant to their treatment.
Trial training
This method breaks down complex courses into very precise and distinct segments. Patients receive rewards when they demonstrate the outcomes of the desired behavior.
Employing a reward-based system like this greatly increases the benefits in both children with autism spectrum disorder and ADHD.
Self-management training
Self-management training is often conducted with teenage and older ASD and ADHD patients. The way this works is by personalizing a plan that would enable patients to independently follow their treatment and regulate their behavior.
This process, known as self-regulation, requires therapists to provide guidelines on how patients can reward themselves for displaying specific behaviors, ensuring successful skill acquisition.
Differential reinforcement
Differential reinforcement strengthens positive behavior in children by rewarding them for actions perceived as positive.
However, during this approach, parents and therapists intentionally delay the positive reinforcement.
What Are Common & Best Therapies For Children With ASD Or ADHD?
Although there are various therapies for treating ASD and ADHD, the delivery method can differ, particularly between adults and children.
Treatment that is tailored for adults significantly contrasts with that designed for children. In children’s treatment, involvement may extend to parents, guardians, and teachers.
One commonly used approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy has been remarkably successful and is by far the best ABA therapy for kids, leading some individuals to entirely discontinue their reliance on previously prescribed medication.
Wrapping up
The approach differs for adults and kids, often involving parents and teachers for children. A common method is cognitive-behavioral therapy, focusing on positive behaviors through techniques like self-management and differential reinforcement.
With that in mind, it’s safe to say that children diagnosed with autism or ADHD can benefit greatly when subjected to ABA therapies.
