In the last few years there has been a lot of uproar about how ABA therapy puts unnecessary pressure on autistic individuals for compliance. Many autistic adults self reports are quoted on how it was detrimental to their autonomy and emotional well being. However, I would like to bring to notice that the ABA therapy that is being talked about was the nascent, traditional approach which was started by Dr. Lovaas using B. F. Skinner’s research on principles of learning in treating children with autism. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has evolved significantly since Dr. Ivar Lovaas’s groundbreaking work in the 1960s. Modern ABA therapy is more individualized, holistic, and effective than ever before. Recognizing that every individual is unique, contemporary ABA practitioners tailor interventions to specific needs, preferences, and strengths. The first objective in ABA therapy is compliance teaching to a child. Without basic compliance a child’s learning cannot happen. WHY IS COMPLIANCE IMPORTANT? When a child comes for therapy, these are a few common scenarios given by caregivers which disrupts their daily living: – They’re trying to get their child ready for school. He just needs to get his shoes on and he continues to push their hands away. – It’s dinner time and he won’t sit for longer than a few seconds before he’s up and running around again. -It’s time to clean up, but he runs away from them instead. -They spend half an hour trying to coax him for a bath, but he dodges them or throws a fit every time they get close. Even independent adults and children without disabilities encounter numerous opportunities to comply with directions from others every day. Consider the following situations: – Success in school depends on doing a large number of things the teacher asks – Playing team sports requires doing what the coach says – When driving through or walking past a construction zone, you must comply with the person directing traffic or other safety signs – Children need to follow rules when playing a game with peers – Keeping a job requires doing what your boss asks – Compliance is also necessary to maintain the safety of the child. A child who fails to comply with demands such as, “Stop” when a car is coming can find themselves in serious danger. Merriam-Webster defines cooperation as “the actions of someone who is being helpful by doing what is wanted or asked for.” Many professionals use the term “compliance” interchangeably with “cooperation.” The intent is the same. There are times when you need a child to do something. When deciding to use Compliance Training, it should be with these ends in mind. Compliance Training should lead to improved quality of life and improved independence for the child. Studies have demonstrated Applied Behavior Analysis is the best approach when working with children with autism. ABA therapy in current times works on compliance but also takes care of child’s autonomy, dignity and well-being. Here are some key considerations that should be followed in ABA therapy: 1. Individualization is Key Every person with autism is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, preferences, and needs. Treatment should be individualized to respect their pace, interests, and developmental level. For some, a focus on compliance can be helpful in learning routines and self-care skills, but for others, it may lead to frustration or a diminished sense of autonomy. 2. Prioritize Functional Skills Teaching functional, meaningful skills—such as communication, self-regulation, or social interaction—should be the main goal, not mere compliance for compliance’s sake. If compliance leads to increased independence and the ability to engage in daily activities, it’s a positive outcome. 3. Incorporate Choice and Agency It’s vital to incorporate opportunities for choice and self-advocacy into interventions. Individuals with autism should be encouraged to make decisions for themselves, whether it’s choosing between activities or expressing preferences. 4. Respect Sensory and Emotional Needs Many individuals with autism have sensory sensitivities or emotional responses that can impact their ability to comply with requests. It’s crucial to be aware of these factors and adapt interventions to avoid overwhelming or distressing them. 5. Focus on Positive Reinforcement Compliance, when it’s linked to positive reinforcement and intrinsic motivation, can be a more constructive approach. Reinforcing desirable behaviors with praise, rewards, or preferred activities is generally more effective and empowering for individuals with autism. 6. Balance with Social and Emotional Development Social and emotional development should not be sacrificed in favor of strict compliance. Encouraging independent thinking, problem-solving, and emotional expression is crucial for helping individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives. 7. Promote Respectful Relationships Treatment should emphasize respectful relationships between the individual and their caregivers, teachers, or therapists. A relationship based on trust and understanding helps the individual feel more secure and supported. A focus on compliance can be valuable in autism interventions, especially when it’s part of a well-rounded approach that emphasizes functional skills, choice, and respect for individual differences.
