Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 25, 2026
08:42
A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
Behavioral interventions for children with autism spectrum disorders
Linda A LeBlanc1, Jennifer M Gillis
1Department of Psychology, 226 Thach Hall, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849-5214, USA. leblanc@auburn.edu
Pediatric Clinics of North America
|January 31, 2012
Summary
Early intensive behavioral intervention is effective for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Less intensive behavioral approaches also help older individuals with targeted concerns.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Developmental psychology
- Clinical psychology
Background:
- Early intensive behavioral intervention is the primary evidence-based treatment for autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in young children.
- Less intensive behavioral interventions show efficacy for specific issues in older children and adolescents with ASDs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the fundamental characteristics of behavioral treatments for ASDs.
- To review the evidence supporting the effectiveness of these interventions.
- To offer guidance for families in understanding and accessing qualified providers.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of behavioral intervention studies for ASDs.
- Synthesis of evidence on treatment effectiveness.
- Development of recommendations for families and healthcare providers.
Main Results:
- Behavioral interventions are well-established for young children with ASDs.
- Targeted behavioral approaches are effective for older individuals.
- Clear guidelines are needed for families and providers.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral interventions are critical for managing autism spectrum disorders across the lifespan.
- Enhanced understanding and collaboration between families, pediatric providers, and behavior analysts are essential for optimal care.
- Standardized recommendations can improve access to and effectiveness of behavioral treatments for ASDs.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:24Operant Conditioning Intervention
Operant conditioning serves as a foundational principle in therapeutic interventions aimed at modifying maladaptive behaviors. Central to this approach is the notion that behaviors, both adaptive and maladaptive, are learned through reinforcement. By analyzing the environmental factors that reinforce problematic behaviors, clinicians can design interventions to weaken these reinforcements and replace maladaptive behaviors with healthier alternatives.
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
In operant conditioning, behaviors that are...
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:21Behavior Modification
Behavioral approaches have often been criticized for ignoring mental processes and focusing solely on observable behavior. However, these approaches provide an optimistic perspective for individuals seeking to change their behaviors. Rather than concentrating on intrinsic personality traits, behavioral approaches suggest that even longstanding habits can be modified by changing the reward contingencies that maintain them.
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
01:22Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapy incorporates diverse techniques rooted in classical conditioning principles to address maladaptive behaviors and anxiety disorders. These methods aim to reduce avoidance behaviors, foster adaptive coping mechanisms, and alter associations between stimuli and responses, making them effective in a wide range of therapeutic contexts.
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
Exposure therapy is a cornerstone of behavioral treatment for anxiety disorders. It involves systematic exposure to feared stimuli, either in real...
01:28Behaviorism
The field of behaviorism was pioneered by figures such as Ivan Pavlov, John B. Watson, and B.F. Skinner fundamentally shifted the focus of psychology to the observable and controllable aspects of human and animal behavior. This shift marked a critical evolution in the discipline, emphasizing scientific rigor and experimental methodology.
The core premise of behaviorism is its focus on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts or feelings. This approach argues that true scientific...
The core premise of behaviorism is its focus on observable behavior rather than internal thoughts or feelings. This approach argues that true scientific...