WHAT IS ABA ?
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the most scientifically proven method for treatment of Autism, with over 50 years of extensive clinical studies. ABA addresses various issues using an understanding of why behavior occurs. Similar to other applied sciences, ABA can be utilised to assist a wide range of social concerns (e.g depression, phobia, behaviours associated with autism, addiction, anxieties) as well as various populations and settings (e.g. education, business and industry, healthcare and gerontology). 90% of individuals with Autism who underwent ABA, at 40 hours a week, substantially improved. (Lovaas, 1987).
BASED ON SCIENCE
Only research based teaching methods are used so your child learns new skills effectively.
REDUCES CHALLENGING BEHAVIORS
Uses the principles of learning to increase or decrease behaviors.
MEASURABLE DATA
Focus on observable and measurable behaviors. It is a scientifically valid approach in understanding the whys behind behaviors
DATA DRIVEN
Utilises data collection and analysis. This allows for continual tracking of your child's progress
GENERALIZATION
Children on the spectrum have difficulty with generalisation. Generalisation and real-world application should always be programmed purposefully within ABA and DTT programs.
HOW DOES ABA WORK?
ABA focuses on behaviours that would significantly impact an individual to lead more fulfilling lives. This method uses clearly defined procedures to change behaviours and teaches individuals skills to promote development as well as independence.
The primary instructional method is called Discrete Trial Teaching (DTT) which involves :
BREAKING DOWN SKILLS
Targeted skill or behaviour is systematically broken down into the smallest necessary component for active learning
REPETITIVE TEACHING
Each sub-skill is taught repeatedly in a concentrated period of time until mastery
PROMPTING
Prompt and prompt fading is provided to ensure a successful learning environment
USING REINFORCEMENT
ABA uses POSITIVE reinforcement to increase targeted behaviour
WHAT MAKES US
DIFFERENT ?
While all ABA may be founded on the same principles, not all ABA is alike. ABA can take various forms depending upon the individual or agency providing the service. In addition to the skill level of the provider, there are technical and stylistic differences in the implementation of ABA.
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At Autism Link, our approach is very child-centred and naturalistic. Our goal is not only to help children succeed, but also to extend support and guidance to the family members. We strongly believe that children can achieve significant improvements with a highly intensive and individualized learning program.
Individualised Education Program
Access to International Consultant services
Staff trained and supervised by consulting BCBA
Supervisors up to 10 years experience
Parent Training
AUTISM LINK'S APPROACH
At Autism Link Malaysia, we embrace the methods used by our long term consultants from Autism Partnership. It is a highly individualized and progressive ABA mode, that is child-friendly, holistic and focused on real-time assessment, analysis and clinical judgment.
In contrast to conventional ABA, our approach is highly flexible yet systematic and compassionate, allowing us to meet the individual needs of children with ASD.
WHY IS ABA SO EFFECTIVE ?
ABA is considered an evidence-based best practice treatment by the US Surgeon General and by the American Psychological Association.
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“Evidence-based” means that ABA has passed scientific tests of its usefulness, quality, and effectiveness. ABA therapy includes a variety of techniques which focus on antecedents (what happens before a behaviour occurs) and on consequences (what happens after the behaviour occurs).
More than 20 studies have established that intensive and long-term therapy which refers to programs that provide 25 to 40 hours a week of therapy using ABA principles ,improves outcomes for many children with autism. These studies show gains in intellectual functioning, language development, daily living skills and social functioning
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HOW CAN WE MAXIMIZE
THE OUTCOMES?
There are a number of factors that contribute to successful outcomes:
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Quality of ABA Therapy
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Treatment hours
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Consistent treatment
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Starting treatment as early as possible
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Sticking to treatment that is proven to be effective, i.e., not incorporating different treatments
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Frequent supervision
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Parental involvement