First Advisor

Brenna Wood

Date of Award

Winter 3-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology and University Honors

Department

Psychology

Language

English

Subjects

Behavior therapy -- Methods, Children with autism spectrum disorders -- Behavior modification, Autism spectrum disorders in children

DOI

10.15760/honors.1237

Abstract

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) - originally a method of studying behavior - is now an intervention style that utilizes operant conditioning and behaviorism to teach and address behaviors that support the development of autistic students. While much of ABA is strongly supported by research, a debate exists over its use. Criticisms from people on the spectrum, their families, and professionals of various fields target everything from ABA’s implementation, research, and ethical basis. By clarifying what ABA entails, reviewing the history of ABA, compiling criticisms, and collecting opinions of Oregon-based behavioral specialists, this thesis seeks to identify regions where ABA can improve. Primarily among these recommendations is the need to increase the collaborative ability of behavioral professionals in school settings, improve the curriculum of future licensed behavioral specialists, and make action-based responses to the needs of autistic individuals.

Rights

In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

Persistent Identifier

https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/37201

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