10 Potential Harms of ABA Therapy on Autistic Children
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy has long been regarded as a cornerstone intervention for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
In fact, ABA stands as one of the few therapies widely covered by insurance, making it a prominent choice for families seeking structured support for their autistic children.
However, while ABA’s systematic approach to behavior modification has gained traction as a valuable tool, there is a pressing need to scrutinize its potential implications more closely.
In this blog post, we embark on an exploration of the potential harms of ABA therapy on autistic children.
Acknowledging that ABA is often the sole therapy that is insured, we recognize the gravity of scrutinizing its effects comprehensively.
The intention here is not to cast a shadow on all instances of ABA therapy but to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities at play.
We aim to unearth 10 distinct revealed harms associated with ABA therapy.
By examining these concerns, we hope to open a dialogue that delves beyond surface-level benefits, leading to a more comprehensive perspective on ABA’s impact.
It is important to acknowledge that our goal is not to diminish the experiences of those who have found ABA beneficial.
Rather, we endeavor to highlight potential issues that warrant thoughtful consideration, thereby promoting an insightful conversation about interventions for autistic children.
This exploration of ABA therapy’s potential harms will be divided into distinct sections, each addressing a particular aspect of concern.
From the use of harmful techniques to the prioritization of compliance over autonomy, our aim is to bring to light areas that may have been overshadowed by the therapy’s perceived advantages.
Our hope is that these considerations will contribute to an informed discourse about autism interventions.
Join us on this journey of discovery as we uncover the potential harms of ABA therapy on autistic children.
The insights presented in the forthcoming sections seek to encourage thoughtful contemplation and to broaden our collective perspective on the effects of ABA therapy.
As we navigate the intricate landscape of autism interventions, it is our intention to illuminate the nuanced elements that lie beneath the surface.
Through the exploration of 10 revealed harms of ABA therapy, we hope to engage in a discourse that is enlightening, thought-provoking, and conducive to a well-rounded understanding of the topic.
1. Harmful Techniques Used in ABA
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, pioneered by Ivar Lovaas in the 1960s, gained prominence as a structured approach aimed at modifying behaviors in autistic individuals.
While the field has evolved since its inception, it’s crucial to recognize that ABA is marked by practices that raise serious ethical and humane concerns.
The use of certain techniques, considered acceptable within ABA, sheds light on the potential for harm in the pursuit of behavior control.
Electric Shocks, Withholding Food, Isolation, and Restraints:
In Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), the techniques employed to modify behaviors in autistic individuals are often far removed from the compassion and understanding.
Harmful practices such as electric shocks, withholding food, isolation, and restraints are integrated into ABA programs.
The motivation behind their usage lay in the misguided belief that autistic behaviors need to be forcibly suppressed or eradicated, often underpinned by a control-focused mindset rather than one that prioritized the well-being, individuality, and autonomy of autistic individuals.
Withholding Food and Isolation
Withholding food and isolation are wielded as punitive tools to enforce compliance.
The notion is that depriving individuals of basic necessities compels them to modify their behaviors to regain access to these essentials.
This approach, however, overlooks the fundamental human rights and dignity of autistic individuals.
By denying them food or isolating them from social interactions, these practices not only fail to address the underlying causes of behaviors but also exacerbate distress and harm their overall well-being.
Restraints: Physical and Psychological Consequences
Restraints, both physical and emotional, are used to subdue and control behaviors deemed unacceptable.
Physical restraints pose a danger of physical harm and convey the message that one’s expression and movements are to be constrained.
Emotional restraints, including the isolation of individuals in confined spaces, magnify the negative impact of ABA’s control-focused approach.
Instead of nurturing understanding and fostering communication, these techniques perpetuate a cycle of fear and suppression.
Collectively, the use of these techniques within ABA therapy demonstrates the extent to which practices are driven by a desire for behavioral conformity at the expense of individual autonomy and well-being.
By recognizing the harms caused by these techniques, we can collectively strive for interventions that are grounded in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to supporting autistic individuals in ways that honor their unique experiences and needs.
Control and Its Consequences
The integration of harmful techniques within the realm of ABA therapy underscores a distressing paradigm: the pursuit of control over autistic behaviors.
At the heart of these practices lay an attempt to force conformity, an endeavor to mold autistic individuals to align with societal norms rather than embracing and understanding their unique experiences.
This control-focused approach has profound consequences, not only for the individuals subjected to these techniques but for the broader perception of autism and its intersection with the concept of “normalcy.”
Aligning with Predetermined Standards: A Flawed Assumption
At the core of these practices is the misguided belief that reshaping behaviors to align with predefined societal norms is the ultimate objective.
The underlying assumption is that by enforcing control over behaviors, autistic individuals can be made to fit into a predetermined mold of what was considered “typical.”
However, this assumption disregards the fact that autistic behaviors often serve vital purposes, such as communication or self-regulation.
Instead of fostering understanding, these techniques perpetuate a cycle of suppression that ignore the importance of acknowledging and accommodating these differences.
In retrospect, the consequences of this control-focused approach are profound.
Not only does it undermine the autonomy and individuality of autistic individuals, but it also contributes to the perpetuation of stigmatization and misunderstanding surrounding autism.
As we move forward in our exploration of the potential harms of ABA therapy, it’s imperative to consider the implications of such an approach and to advocate for interventions that prioritize respect, understanding, and genuine communication over attempts at control.
Addressing the Historical Context
It’s essential to address the historical context and acknowledge that ABA therapy’s evolution has been marked by shifts in understanding and ethical considerations.
However, it’s crucial to recognize that challenges still persist.
In some cases, practices that were once criticized for their harmful effects continue to be used.
For instance, the FDA proposed a ban on electrical stimulation devices (ESDs) used for self-injurious and aggressive behaviors and the federal court appealed it.
This raises concerns about the prioritization of control over more compassionate and ethical approaches.
As we proceed through the upcoming sections, it’s imperative to remember that while there has been progress in the field of ABA therapy, critical issues remain.
By confronting these challenges, we aim to contribute to a more informed discourse surrounding interventions for autistic children.
Through this exploration, we seek to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities and potential consequences of ABA therapy, ultimately advocating for interventions that prioritize the well-being, autonomy, and holistic development of autistic individuals.
2. Behavior Suppression and Ignoring Underlying Reasons.
Embedded within the framework of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is an approach that has, at times, leaned towards behavior suppression rather than holistic comprehension.
This emphasis on modifying behaviors can sometimes overshadow the crucial aspect of understanding the underlying causes, which are pivotal for informed and compassionate interventions.
Behavior Suppression: A Surface-Level Focus
ABA therapy has been associated with an inclination towards suppressing behaviors that deviate from societal norms.
The aim has often been to substitute non-standard behaviors with more socially conventional ones.
However, this focus on the surface-level modification of behaviors neglects the profound motivations and triggers that give rise to these actions in the first place.
Understanding Root Causes: A Necessity for Effective Intervention
Unraveling the motivations behind specific behaviors is not only essential but also enlightening.
The behaviors displayed by autistic individuals frequently serve as means of communication, enabling them to express their needs, discomfort, emotions, and responses to their environment.
Overlooking the importance of understanding these root causes essentially silences these forms of communication, impeding their ability to navigate the world meaningfully.
As Leaf et al. (2021) aptly noted, “Extinction (including planned ignoring) goes against what all the research is showing us about child and human development. Extinction doesn’t care about trauma, in fact, it can cause trauma.”
This insight serves as a poignant reminder that behaviors have intricate meanings, often rooted in a deeper language that requires acknowledgment and interpretation.
Shifting from Suppression to Comprehension
In recent times, there has been a growing recognition of the limitations of behavior suppression and a concerted effort to embrace a more profound understanding of behaviors.
This shift in perspective acknowledges that behaviors are often the language through which autistic individuals communicate their thoughts, feelings, and necessities.
Approaching behaviors with the intent to decode their meanings empowers individuals to express themselves authentically and respect their unique experiences.
While navigating through subsequent sections, it’s imperative to uphold the value of uncovering the underlying motivations for behaviors.
By acknowledging the drawbacks of behavior suppression and highlighting the significance of addressing the root causes, we contribute to a more encompassing, compassionate, and respectful approach to interventions for autistic children.
3. Compliance Versus Autonomy: Navigating ABA's Priorities
One of the defining dynamics within the realm of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is the inherent tension between compliance and autonomy.
While ABA has been touted as a valuable tool for modifying behaviors, it has been criticized for prioritizing compliance with societal norms over the autonomy and self-expression of autistic individuals.
A Focus on Compliance
ABA therapy, in some instances, places a strong emphasis on encouraging behaviors that align with conventional expectations.
The objective is often to shape autistic individuals’ actions to fit within the framework of typical behaviors.
This emphasis on conformity may unintentionally sideline the individual’s unique experiences and preferences, inadvertently communicating that compliance with external standards is of paramount importance.
Exploring Masking: A Double-Edged Strategy
Within the context of prioritizing compliance, the concept of “masking” comes to the fore.
Masking involves concealing one’s true self by imitating neurotypical behaviors and suppressing autistic traits.
While it might seem like a means of fitting in and being accepted, it comes at a cost.
Masking can lead to emotional exhaustion, identity crises, and a sense of disconnection from one’s authentic self.
In the pursuit of compliance, the individual’s autonomy can become overshadowed by the pressure to conform.
A Striking Perspective: “It Is Vital That Autistics Learn Compliance Too”
Leaf et al. (2021) provide a poignant insight: “Because ABA proponents, as their philosophy dictates, never accept a ‘no’ from Autistics, and will relentlessly pursue the goal of making us comply with what they believe is the desirable way of being, their next argument was to say that ‘neurotypical people comply all the time’, [sic] that’s why it is vital that Autistics learn compliance too.”
This statement encapsulates the dilemma that arises when compliance is held above all else, potentially sidelining the authentic needs and voices of autistic individuals.
Seeking Balance: Autonomy and Respect
As we delve into the complexities of compliance versus autonomy, it’s essential to recognize that striking a balance is key.
Acknowledging and respecting autistic individuals’ autonomy while fostering a supportive environment for their development can yield profound benefits.
Valuing authentic expression alongside personal growth challenges the notion that compliance should be the ultimate goal.
4. Invalidation of Communication and Alternative Expression
Within the framework of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a complex issue emerges concerning the invalidation of communication and alternative forms of expression in autistic individuals.
This concern centers around the potential disregard for non-verbal communication and the failure to fully embrace alternative communication methods.
Non-Verbal Communication: A Misunderstood Language
ABA therapy may sometimes overlook the significance of non-verbal communication, focusing predominantly on externally observable behaviors.
Autistic individuals often employ various non-verbal cues, gestures, and expressions as a means of communication.
Disregarding these subtle forms of interaction can lead to a profound disconnect, stifling the exchange of thoughts, feelings, and needs.
Prioritizing Alternative Communication Methods
Recognizing and valuing the diverse ways in which autistic individuals communicate is pivotal.
Alternative communication methods, such as using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, sign language, or pictorial systems, offer pathways for individuals who may struggle with verbal communication.
Fostering an environment that supports and amplifies these alternative expressions is essential for ensuring that autistic individuals can engage meaningfully with the world around them.
A Critical Perspective: Autistic Inclusion in Goal Selection
Leaf et al. (2021) underscore the importance of involving autistic individuals in the goal selection process, stating that “there is validity to the concern that autistics/individuals diagnosed with ASD are not commonly included in the goal selection process.”
This quote draws attention to the significance of recognizing autistic voices and perspectives in shaping the objectives of therapy.
Neglecting this inclusion perpetuates a cycle of invalidation and dismisses the vital insights individuals have into their own experiences.
Promoting Inclusion and Expression
As we journey further into the intricacies of ABA therapy’s potential harms, it becomes clear that embracing diverse forms of communication and expression is fundamental.
Acknowledging non-verbal cues and valuing alternative communication methods empowers autistic individuals to interact on their terms, enhancing their ability to convey their thoughts and emotions authentically.
5. Unrealistic Expectations and Conformity
The tension between individuality and conformity takes center stage within the context of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.
ABA’s inclination to shape autistic individuals into appearing more “neurotypical” raises questions about the potential harm of fostering unrealistic expectations and demanding conformity.
The Drive for Neurotypical Appearance
ABA therapy, at times, has been driven by the aspiration to make autistic individuals blend seamlessly into the neurotypical world.
This objective manifests in encouraging behaviors that mimic those considered typical, often at the expense of suppressing behaviors that are inherently autistic.
The pursuit of such a goal can inadvertently communicate that the individual’s authentic self is insufficient or undesirable.
The Weight of Unrealistic Expectations
Placing unrealistic expectations on autistic individuals to conform to neurotypical behaviors sets the stage for emotional turmoil.
The pressure to consistently meet these standards can lead to heightened stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy.
Individuals may feel trapped in a cycle of striving to meet external demands while sacrificing their true identities.
These unrealistic expectations can take a toll on mental health and overall well-being.
Advocacy for Change: Acknowledging Harm
As emphasized by Leaf et al. (2021), “These advocates, many of them childhood recipients of ABA, say that the therapy is harmful.”
This sentiment underscores the voices of those who have personally experienced the consequences of aiming for conformity above all else.
Such perspectives shed light on the potential harm caused by pushing individuals to mask their authentic selves and strive for an unattainable ideal.
Promoting Authenticity and Acceptance
As we navigate the landscape of ABA therapy’s potential harms, it becomes evident that celebrating authenticity and embracing diversity should be central to any intervention.
Acknowledging and nurturing the individuality of autistic individuals fosters an environment of acceptance and respect.
Moving away from an approach that prioritizes conformity opens up space for individuals to flourish as their genuine selves.
As we journey forward, the exploration continues, striving to illuminate the complexities of ABA therapy’s impact.
By recognizing the harm of unrealistic expectations and conformity, we advocate for a more empathetic and supportive approach to interventions for autistic children, one that celebrates uniqueness and empowers individuals to thrive as their authentic selves.
6. Desensitization Versus Addressing Root Causes
The approach of desensitization, often employed within the framework of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, stands in stark contrast to the critical task of addressing the root causes of behaviors.
Delving into the practice of desensitization and its implications reveals a complex dynamic that merits careful consideration.
Understanding Desensitization: An Example
Desensitization involves the exposure to stimuli that typically trigger distress or anxiety, with the intent of reducing the individual’s sensitivity to these stimuli over time.
For instance, consider a child who experiences meltdowns in response to a specific loud noise.
In ABA therapy, desensitization might involve repeated exposure to gradually increasing levels of the noise, aiming to diminish the intensity of the reaction.
While this technique might lead to a reduction in outward reactions, it’s crucial to question whether it genuinely addresses the underlying triggers or merely masks the response.
Challenging Assumptions: Desensitization’s Limitations
The approach of desensitization prompts important considerations.
While the external manifestation of a behavior might be modified, it’s essential to recognize that the internal experience may remain unchanged.
As cited by Kupferstein et al. (2018), “Respondents of all ages who were exposed to ABA were 86 percent more likely to meet the PTSD criteria than respondents who were not exposed to ABA.
This insight underscores the complexity of outcomes and the potential harms of desensitization.
Exploring Deeper Implications
In the example of desensitization, the individual might outwardly show reduced reactions to a loud noise, but internally, their sensitivity might remain intact.
This raises the question of whether the individual has genuinely overcome their distress or whether they’ve learned to mask their response for the sake of compliance.
The profound implications of such practices prompt us to consider the importance of addressing the root causes of behaviors, allowing for genuine understanding and communication to flourish.
Advocating for Authenticity and Well-being
As we navigate the discourse surrounding ABA therapy’s potential impacts, it becomes evident that the practice of desensitization necessitates a nuanced perspective.
The complexities of behavior modification demand that interventions not only address outward behaviors but also delve into the emotions, experiences, and needs that drive them.
By advocating for interventions that prioritize authenticity, understanding, and holistic well-being, we pave the way for a more ethical and empathetic approach to supporting autistic individuals on their unique journeys.
7. Intensive Schedules and Burnout
An inherent challenge within the framework of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is the demanding nature of its intensive schedules, which can result in burnout and emotional exhaustion.
Recognizing the potential consequences of such schedules emphasizes the critical importance of balancing therapy intensity with the well-being of autistic individuals.
The Weight of Intensive Schedules
ABA therapy often entails rigorous schedules, with some programs requiring up to 40 hours of therapy per week.
While the intention behind these schedules is to expedite behavior modification, they can inadvertently place significant strain on individuals, both physically and emotionally.
The intensity of these demands can lead to exhaustion, stress, and an overwhelming sense of fatigue.
Striving for Balance: Intensity and Well-being
In the quest for progress, it’s vital to consider the potential toll that intensive schedules can take on an individual’s overall well-being.
Burnout and emotional exhaustion can hinder the individual’s capacity to engage meaningfully in therapy and other aspects of life.
Striking a balance between the intensity of therapy and the individual’s well-being acknowledges the holistic nature of development and growth.
Insights from Research: Reexamining the Connection
The findings from the Department of Defense Comprehensive Autism Care Demonstration Annual Report 2020 challenge assumptions about the relationship between therapy intensity and outcomes.
The report states, “It was also found that no one age group demonstrated improvement when correlated with the number of hours of rendered ABA services.”
Additionally, the report highlights that “more recent large-scale analyses on children who received 12 months of ABA services indicated that increased intensity does not necessarily predict better outcomes.”
These insights underscore the need to reexamine the prevailing beliefs about the direct correlation between therapy intensity and success.
Empowering Well-being alongside Progress
Drawing insights from both experiences and research, it’s evident that the balance between therapy intensity and well-being is paramount.
Acknowledging the potential challenges of intensive schedules and advocating for a more holistic approach that addresses both progress and the individual’s overall wellness contributes to a compassionate, mindful, and effective model of intervention for autistic children.
8. Suppressing Stimming
Within the discourse surrounding Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a significant concern emerges regarding the suppression of stimming behaviors—natural, self-regulatory responses that hold immense value for many autistic individuals.
This section sheds light on the potential harm that arises from attempting to suppress these behaviors, highlighting their essential role in emotional well-being and authentic expression.
Stimming: A Natural Expression
Stimming, short for self-stimulatory behaviors, encompasses a range of repetitive movements, sounds, or actions that autistic individuals engage in to manage sensory experiences and emotions.
These behaviors, often dismissed as “undesirable” within the framework of ABA, serve a crucial purpose in self-regulation and emotional expression.
From hand-flapping to rocking, stimming provides a means of navigating an often overwhelming world.
The Distressing Consequences of Suppression
Efforts to suppress stimming can have distressing consequences for autistic individuals.
The attempt to mask these behaviors, driven by a desire for conformity, can lead to heightened stress and anxiety.
The emotional toll of suppressing stimming goes beyond the surface, potentially jeopardizing the individual’s emotional well-being and sense of self.
Embracing Authenticity and Well-being
The words of those who have experienced stim suppression resonate deeply.
Their firsthand accounts emphasize that recognizing and accommodating stimming is pivotal to fostering emotional wellness.
By embracing stimming as a natural expression, we honor the individual’s autonomy and affirm the significance of these behaviors in navigating the complexities of the autistic experience.
Advocating for Inclusion and Respect
The suppression of stimming within certain ABA practices calls for a shift towards interventions that prioritize emotional well-being, authenticity, and self-acceptance.
As we navigate the intricacies of ABA therapy’s potential harms, it becomes evident that acknowledging and celebrating stimming is a fundamental step towards fostering a more inclusive, empathetic, and respectful approach.
By supporting the right to stim and valuing these self-regulatory expressions, we contribute to a therapeutic landscape that uplifts and empowers autistic individuals, promoting holistic growth and emotional flourishing.
9. Individualization and Sensory Needs
Central to the discourse surrounding Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is the concept of individualization, particularly in the context of accommodating sensory needs and communication preferences.
Acknowledging the lack of individualization in some ABA practices prompts us to explore the profound importance of recognizing and respecting each individual’s unique experiences.
Addressing the Need for Individualization
Within the realm of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a pertinent critique emerges around the lack of individualization in certain practices.
This oversight, where interventions are applied uniformly without considering an individual’s specific needs and preferences, raises concerns about the efficacy and appropriateness of such approaches.
The essence of individuality, rooted in the diversity of the autistic experience, underscores the profound necessity of tailoring interventions to honor each person’s distinctive characteristics and requirements.
The Risk of One-Size-Fits-All Approaches
Imagine two autistic individuals, both of whom have unique sets of sensory sensitivities, communication styles, and preferences.
Approaching their therapy with a standardized, one-size-fits-all method disregards the richness of their individual experiences.
A strategy that proves effective for one person might be entirely ineffective or even counterproductive for the other.
As such, the very essence of individualization lies in the acknowledgment that what resonates with one might not necessarily resonate with another.
The Power of Tailoring Interventions
Tailoring interventions to the individual’s unique needs holds the potential to transform the therapeutic experience.
For example, consider an autistic child who finds comfort and focus in engaging with visual stimuli but becomes overwhelmed in a noisy environment.
Tailoring the therapy sessions to incorporate visual aids and minimizing auditory distractions can significantly enhance the child’s engagement and progress.
This approach, rooted in individualization, extends beyond behavior modification to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.
Sensory Sensitivities: A Crucial Aspect
Autistic individuals often exhibit unique sensory sensitivities, which can profoundly influence their experiences and interactions with the world.
Ignoring or disregarding these sensitivities within ABA therapy can result in heightened discomfort, distress, and anxiety.
Recognizing and accommodating sensory preferences can not only foster a more conducive therapy environment but also demonstrate respect for the individual’s sensory experiences.
Crafting a Holistic Approach: Sensitivity and Understanding
The lack of individualization in some ABA practices underscores the need for a more nuanced and holistic approach.
Recognizing and respecting each individual’s sensory sensitivities and communication preferences not only enhances the efficacy of therapy but also affirms the value of their unique experiences.
By embracing the richness of diversity within the autistic community, we move towards interventions that prioritize authenticity, well-being, and mutual understanding.
As we proceed with our exploration, the journey continues, seeking to shed light on the intricate aspects of ABA therapy and its implications.
By advocating for interventions that value individualization and sensory considerations, we contribute to a more inclusive, empathetic, and respectful approach to supporting autistic children on their remarkable journeys.
10. Links to Trauma and PTSD
Link to Trauma and PTSD: Examining the Impact
Within the discourse surrounding Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a concerning link emerges between ABA and the development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex PTSD (CPTSD) in autistic individuals.
This correlation warrants a closer examination of the potential long-term psychological harm resulting from an approach that places emphasis on compliance and punishment.
Unveiling the Connection
The study conducted by Kupferstein (2018) shines a spotlight on the distressing connection between ABA therapy and the development of PTSD symptoms.
This research reveals that nearly half (46 percent) of ABA-exposed respondents met the diagnostic threshold for PTSD, with extreme levels of severity recorded in 47 percent of the affected subgroup.
Such findings underscore the gravity of the emotional toll that ABA therapy can exact on autistic individuals.
The Far-Reaching Impact
Across all age groups, individuals who underwent ABA therapy were found to be 86 percent more likely to meet the criteria for PTSD compared to those who were not exposed to ABA.
Moreover, both adults and children who were subjected to ABA exhibited increased chances of meeting the PTSD criteria—41 percent for adults and a staggering 130 percent for children.
These statistics paint a troubling picture of the potential harm that can arise from an approach that focuses on compliance and utilizes punitive measures.
The Role of Compliance and Punishment
The emphasis on compliance within ABA therapy can inadvertently contribute to a climate where punishment becomes a tool for enforcing conformity.
The study’s findings suggest that this dynamic can lead to long-term psychological repercussions, as the pressure to comply and the fear of punishment may contribute to heightened stress, anxiety, and even trauma.
It’s a stark reminder that the pursuit of behavior modification should not overshadow the emotional well-being of individuals undergoing therapy.
The Dual Energy Burden: Masking and Compliance
Masking, the process of camouflaging one’s true self to conform to societal norms, adds another layer to the discussion.
While masking can enable autistic individuals to navigate social situations, it also exacts a toll in the form of extensive energy expenditure.
This constant effort to mask true emotions and behaviors can contribute to heightened stress, anxiety, and ultimately depression over time.
In conjunction with compliance-focused approaches, the energy required for masking further intensifies the emotional strain experienced by autistic individuals.
Advocating for Ethical and Inclusive Interventions
The correlation between ABA therapy and the development of PTSD underscores the urgent need for interventions that prioritize emotional well-being, autonomy, and holistic growth.
As we navigate the discourse surrounding ABA therapy’s potential harms, it becomes evident that the connection to trauma and PTSD necessitates a shift towards a more ethical and inclusive model of therapy.
By centering interventions on empathy, respect, and genuine understanding, we strive to contribute to a therapeutic landscape that uplifts and empowers autistic individuals while safeguarding their mental and emotional health.
