Assent-Based ABA: A Compassionate Approach to Autism Therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a well-known therapy for individuals with autism. It focuses on teaching functional skills and reducing and replacing unsafe behaviors. Historically ABA has received some flack regarding rigid and robotic interventions. Autistic adults have spoken out against ABA sharing that compliance-based ABA caused trauma that followed them into adulthood. The field of ABA listened and are moving forward to reflect a compassionate care model that respects autistic individuals for who they are while supporting them in their learning and growth. This is where assent-based ABA comes in.
What Is Assent-Based ABA?
Assent-based ABA is a version of ABA therapy that prioritizes the agreement, or "assent," of the child receiving treatment. In simple terms, it means the therapist makes sure the child is willing and comfortable before continuing with therapy. If the child shows signs of distress or resistance, the therapist respects those signals and adjusts the approach.
Real-life example:
At work, your manager asks you to lead a team meeting. Instead of assuming you are comfortable with it, your manager asks:
"Would you be open to leading the meeting, or would you prefer to assist in another way?"
You reply, "I’d rather help with organizing the agenda."
By offering a choice and respecting your response, your manager ensures you have input in how you partake in the meeting.
The Importance of Assent in ABA
When a child has a say in their therapy, they are more likely to:
- Enjoy the learning process
- Develop a sense of independence
- Build a trusting relationship with their therapist
- Feel respected and valued
By respecting a child’s choice to participate, assent-based ABA teaches not just social and academic skills, but also self-advocacy. Children learn that their feelings matter and that they have control over their own bodies and decisions.
How Assent-Based ABA Works
Assent-based ABA follows a few key principles to ensure therapy is both effective and respectful:
1. Observing and Responding to Small Behaviors:
- Not all children can express their feelings with words. Some might turn away, cry, or show signs of frustration when they aren't feeling well.
Assent-based therapists pay close attention to these behaviors. If a child is upset, the therapist may pause the activity, offer a break, or try a different approach.
2. Providing Choices:
- Not everyone wants to do things the same way, assent-based ABA allows for choices. For example, if a child is learning to identify colors, they might choose between pointing to a picture, using flashcards, or playing a game.
By offering choices, therapy becomes more engaging and enjoyable.
3. Building Trust:
- A strong relationship between a therapist and the child is essential. When a child trusts their therapist, they are more willing to participate in learning activities.
Assent-based ABA emphasizes creating a positive and supportive environment where the child feels safe to express themselves.
4. Adjusting Goals and Expectations:
- If a child consistently withdraws assent for a certain activity, the BCBA reevaluates the goal. Maybe the activity is too difficult for them at this moment. Maybe the child wants to learn the skill with a different approach.
Assent-based ABA is flexible and adapts to the child’s needs, ensuring therapy remains positive and effective.
The Benefits of Assent-Based ABA
This approach offers several benefits for children with autism and their families:
- Better emotional well-being: Children feel heard and respected, leading to less behaviors that interfere with their learning.
- Increased engagement: When children have a say in their learning, they are more willing to participate.
- More natural learning: Skills develop in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful to the child.
Why It Matters
Children with autism, like all people, deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. Assent-based ABA shifts the focus from just teaching skills to also supporting the child’s emotional and psychological well-being. By making therapy a positive experience, children are more likely to grow, learn, and develop confidence in themselves.
For parents and caregivers, choosing assent-based ABA can mean a more joyful and successful journey for their child. It ensures that therapy is not just about progress, but also about happiness, trust, and empowerment. Ultimately, the goal of any therapy should be to help children thrive while honoring who they are as individuals.
