Applied Behavior Analysis: What Can It Do For My Child?
By Stephen C. Luce, Ph.D. and George Linke, Psy.D.

In last month’s article, “Understanding Applied Behavior Analysis,” we reviewed some relevant elements of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Here we provide readers with information about how they can find clinicians to help them use behavioral techniques with their children, students, or clients.

Throughout the 1990s, many professionals became interested in ABA and its use with young children with autism. The impressive success reported in 1987 by Dr. O. Ivar Lovaas, Professor of Psychology at UCLA, showed that with intensive early intervention, ABA can significantly impact most young children with autism. In fact, a sizeable minority of children studied proceeded with their school careers after pre-school without the need for additional special education support. Today, many of these former students lead normal professional and personal lives. In 1993, Catherine Maurice provided a beautifully written, detailed account of an ABA program from a parent’s perspective in Let Me Hear Your Voice: A Family’s Triumph Over Autism.

Importantly, however, the procedures used by Dr. Lovaas and other professionals originated from many rigorously studied techniques that were extensively reported in professional journals these last 40 years. And procedures shown to be so successful for young children with autism can be adapted for virtually all special education students, no matter what their age. In addition, do not believe those who suggest ABA is a new fad, or useful only for young children. ABA has been shown to be very useful for
typically developing children.

The confusion about ABA may stem from the fact that many professionals have not been trained in its use. While physicians, teachers, school administrators, psychologists, and social workers require licenses to work in their fields, they may not be knowledgeable about the use or benefits of ABA. Some states now certify Behavior Analysts, but at this point, that process is just beginning. Organizations like Behavior Analyst Certification Board (www.BACB.com) provide guidelines for certification that help you choose professionals qualified to use ABA.

We generally recommend that you inquire about a professional’s level of expertise before selecting someone to provide behavioral programming for a child. While much of the day-to-day work in a behavioral program can be completed by individuals with minimal credentials, their supervisors should 1) hold a master’s or doctorate in a human service field, 2) have experience working with individuals similar to the child—such experience should include a practicum or internship under the supervision of an experienced behavior analyst—and 3) maintain membership in the Association of Behavior Analysis or one of its chapters.

In choosing a human service professional to help design behavioral interventions, remember that certification and other forms of professional credentials do not guarantee good service. Be selective and seek the advice of pediatricians or other professionals you trust. Also, ask questions whose answers provide assurance that selected professionals are a good match for the individuals requiring services. No professional should question a parent who examines a professional’s level of experience with similar individuals and their rate of success. Local universities and colleges can be very helpful in unearthing skilled professionals. Since ABA experts come from several different disciplines, consumers can approach Psychology, Education, Special Education, or Social Work Departments at local colleges and universities. For further assistance feel free to contact us at www.melmark.org or call Melmark Inc., in Pennsylvania at 1-888-MELMARK.

Stephen C. Luce, Ph.D. is Vice President of Clinical Programming, Training and Research for Melmark, Inc. George P. Linke, Psy.D. is the Senior Executive Director of Programs and Operations for Melmark, Inc. Melmark is a day and residential program for children and adults with developmental disabilities in Berwyn, Pennsylvania just outside of Philadelphia.#

Education Update, Inc., P.O. Box 20005, New York, NY 10001. Tel: (212) 481-5519. Fax: (212) 481-3919. Email: ednews1@aol.com.
All material is copyrighted and may not be printed without express consent of the publisher. © 2001.