An Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapist provides behavior modifications as a treatment for autism allowing increased social communication. As a result of the limited treatment options available to those diagnosed, the role is currently under very high demand. Applied Behavioral Analysis is in such high demand because every year one out of every eighty-eight kids are being diagnosed (ABA Therapist Job Description). An effective ABA therapist performs their job description, deals with autistic children and the rewarding benefits of of the treatment.
In order to become a Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapist you should have a minimum of a bachelor's degree, however, a master’s or doctorate degree would allow them to work independently …show more content…
In this form of therapy, communication is broken down into progressively harder types of communication. The first technique a ABA therapist tries to accomplish is what is called a mand. A mand is the most basic communication because the child is asking for something they want. For example, a child may say “cookie” when that is what they want. The second level communication is called a tact or label. This is where a child will say “cookie” when they see it. The third communication level is call echoic or vocal imitation. This is where a child can repeat the word “cookie” when they hear it. Another communication method is called the motor imitation. This is copying someone’s motor movements. An example might be to sign “cookie”. This is very useful in nonverbal children. The next level is called receptive language. This is where a child follows an instruction. A child may pass the “cookie” when asked. The next level is called receptive by feature, function, or class. The child would respond to items in the environment by pointing to a cookie. The final level of early communication is called interverbal. This is where they can answer “wh” questions. The child would say “cookie” when asked what is this? Breaking communication down into progressively harder components allows a child to be successful in achieving the basics of communication that many of us take for …show more content…
Autism Science Foundation says that Autism is about 4.5 times more likely to affect more boys than girls, and it's found in all racial, ethnic, and social groups. Researches have not found a reason for the cause of Autism but they are leaning towards genetic components. The Autism Science Foundation performed researched on twins that indicates there are links with siblings. If one identical twin has autism then there is a 36-95% chance that the other one will also have autism. With non-identical twins it is about 0-31% that both twins will develop Autism (ASD). The chance of siblings will be affected by ASD is about 2-18%. (What is Autism?-Autism Science