Positive Reinforcement with ABA Therapy Teaches Positive Behaviors

recommended form of treatment for children withreinforcement is an important part of proper
autism spectrum disorder, there are varying reportsadministration of ABA therapy.  Using this form of
from parents as to how effective it really is.  Scientificreinforcement, children who provide an appropriate
studies from leading government and independentresponse or behavior are met with praise, a
agencies show that it is the most effective form ofcomforting touch, or some other form or reward. 
treatment, yet many parents have trouble.  So whatRather than punishment, negative or inappropriate
is the discrepancy?  Often it is the form ofresponses are met with no reaction at all.  The key is
reinforcement used in conjunction with the therapy.to help the child understand that negative behaviors will
 go entirely unnoticed and will offer no chance of
In order to understand the importance ofreward.  Unless the child is in danger, it is important not
reinforcement, it is necessary to understand that theto react to negative behaviors.
brain of a child with autism does not differentiate 
between positive and negative attention.  In otherPositive reinforcement is an excellent tool and a
words, if you respond to a negative behavior withrecommended part of ABA therapy.  When you
scolding or other punishment, all your child will reallyundergo training to provide your child or your students
know is that their behavior was rewarded withwith ABA therapy, you want them to be able to get
attention.  This will only serve to facilitate a furtherthe most benefit possible.  This means working to not
pattern of negative behavior.  Negative reinforcementonly help them understand concepts and ideas, but
is only seen as negative to the person offering it. behaviors as well.  Positive reinforcement is an
That is why so many school systems get no resultintegral part of behavioral training for children with
when sending autistic students in for disciplinary action.autism spectrum disorder and it can help ensure that
Instead of feeling punished, they have received theother aspects of ABA therapy are more effective as
attention they were looking for.well.  When properly utilized, you will find that positive
 reinforcement leads to natural patterns of positive
On the other hand, positive reinforcement can be anbehavior as well.
excellent teaching tool for kids with ASD.  Positive