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Autism and ABA FAQs

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How do I know if my child has autism or PDD?

Through evaluation and diagnosis by a knowledgeable physician or clinical psychologist who specializes in diagnosing autism. (See Appendix 2 for autism characteristics).

What are some treatments I can look into for my child with autism?

Some competing treatments include: Structured Teaching, Stanley Greenspan's Floortime, and an Eclectic approach. Some treatments that can be used in conjunction with ABA include: Gluten Free-Casein Free diet, vitamin therapy (B6-Magnesium), Sensory Integration, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and medical interventions (such as detoxification and removal of candida). Please refer to the Autism Treatment Guide by Elizabeth Gerlach (see book listing).

Why should I request a behavioral program for my child with autism?

ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis) is the only treatment for autism that scientific research has proven to be effective for children with autism. (For more information see UCLA Program in Appendix 4).

A behavioral program employs ABA techniques such as discrete trial teaching, incidental teaching and pivotal response training to change the behavior of your child with autism and to teach him or her the communication and social skills necessary to function in this world. For a program to be successful it must be intense: at least 30-40 hours a week of one-on-one teaching. Good programming and parental involvement are critical to the success of a program. An ABA program may occur in a school based setting but it should include a home program element. Because behavioral programs are often started when a child is very young, 2-4 years old, they are often done in the home because it is the "natural" environment. For more detailed information read the Glossary.

How do I pay for a behavioral program?

For the most part, parents often pay for the program themselves. A very few advocate enough to get Early Intervention or the School District to pay. Many rely on Self Directed Supports, Developmental Disability Services, Disability Social Security, Insurance, or private funds to directly or indirectly support some or all parts of a home/behavioral program.

My child has PDD, PDD/NOS, or has been diagnosed with "autistic-like" traits. Should we request a behavioral program?

Please consult with a professional. Several are listed in this book. However, scientific research suggests that ABA is appropriate and helpful for children with these diagnoses.

Behavioral programs can be quite expensive and sometimes advocacy is required to convince your public service provider that a behavioral program is required to provide your child with a free and appropriate public education.

In the section that follows there are steps to help you get started.