ABA (APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS) VBA (VERBAL BEHAVIORAL ANALYSIS)
ABA/ VBA Is based on an understanding of behavior, how it evolves, increases, decreases or stops. ABA involves teaching communication, cognitive, social and self help skills across all situations and breaking down these skills into small tasks which are taught in a highly structured manner. An ABA intervention program rewards or reinforces desired behaviors while ignoring or re directing inappropriate behaviors.
The term ABA is often used interchangeably with IBI (Intensive Behavior Interaction)
Behaviour modification is based on the fact that pleasant consequences can promote good behavior. ABA / VBA are all based on behavior modification methods.
The Lovaas method is an early intensive behaviour therapy approach for children with autism, and other related disorders. ABA / VBA are based on the research done by Dr. Ivor Lovaas.
The TEACCH (Treatment and Education of Autistic and Communication Handicapped Children) method introduced the concept of the “Culture of Autism”. It uses a structured teaching approach where the environment is adapted to the child with ASD. This approach uses a lot of visual clarity focusing on the independence of the individual with Autism.
Floor time involves interacting with a child at his or her current developmental level, and building upon a particular set of strengths. Floor time is child focused. The parent or therapist follows the child’s lead, with playful positive attention and tuning in to the child’s interests. By entering into a child’s world, support can be given to climb the ‘developmental ladder’ despite an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Speech therapy aims to improve all aspects of communication. This includes: understanding, expressing, sound production, and social use of language . Speech therapy may include sign language and the use of object exchange and picture symbols.
Occupational therapy focuses on building daily living skills. Many people with autism have difficulty in coordination and in fine motor skills.Occupational therapy can work in these areas to make improvement. Occupational therapists may also give sensory integration therapy a technique which may help autistic people manage hypersensitivity to sound, light, and touch.