Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Applied Behavior Analysis Can Help Reduce Autism Symptoms

Despite the fact that it is one of the most commonly diagnosed disorders in young children, there is no cure for autism. While this can certainly be disheartening for parents, it should not leave them feeling hopeless. Applied Behavior Analysis therapy, or ABA, is the most widely used and accepted treatment for autism, and the simple fact is that it can be incredibly effective. In fact, it is recognized by most schools and states as the only acceptable form of treatment. The simple reason for this is that it is proven to work.

Applied Behavior Analysis works by helping children with autism effectively learn how to learn in the same way as their peers. With autistic children, the brain is wired differently than it is for most, and as such, it works differently. These children are often incredibly intelligent, but they lack the skills needed to make inferences and to communicate properly. ABA therapy helps to teach these children, and it also helps create new pathways within the brain that allow them to learn and communicate the same way as their peers. In the long run, it can make a very significant difference.

With Applied Behavior Analysis, children are taught concepts and behaviors in the most basic way possible. Every item to be taught is broken down into the smallest steps possible, and each step is taught repeatedly until it is understood or able to be mimicked. Over time, skills and behaviors are learned and a child learns how to perform certain tasks or understand certain concepts. This helps them learn in the same way as other children and can often lead to the ability to transition into a standard classroom setting.

The simple fact is that Applied Behavior Analysis is proven to help reduce the symptoms of autism, and in many cases it can do so in a significant way. All children deserve the best chance possible, and for kids with autism, ABA is that chance. With proper training, especially at an early age, kids with autism have an excellent chance at a near complete recovery. For many, the reduction in symptoms is enough for them to go on to lead a life that is incredibly similar to their peers, including relationships, friendships, and successful careers. There may not be a cure for autism, but treatment through ABA can certainly offer the next best thing for kids with autism spectrum disorder.

Garrett Butch is the father of a 6 year old with autism and the founder of Maximum Potential Group.

Maximum Potential has developed courses that train parents and school systems how to work with children with autism.

http://www.maximumpotentialkids.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Garrett_Butch



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