Literature Review: Behavioral Analysis Approach To Potential ✓ Solved

Literature Reviewbehavioral Analysis Approach To Potential Tr

Interventions for autism and the larger spectrum of disorders referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) primarily cater to children with autism, whereas adults with autism are largely ignored despite the difficulties they face. My analysis of the psychological literature produced on autism and adults reveals that behavioral interventions are moderately to highly effective in mitigating the symptoms of ASD. An integrated approach that uses behavioral analysis and other fields related to the mind (such as neuroscience) could help understand and treat ASD.

My research question addresses the core of the treatment of autism in adults: What practices help mitigate the difficulties faced by adults with autism? The ideal type of life envisioned for an individual with autism is one of general well-being and self-sufficiency. Currently, the most effective interventions for ASD are behavioral and educational, which seek to maximize an individual’s functional independence and quality of life through development and learning, improvements in social skills, reductions in disability and comorbidity, and promotion of independence.

Behavioral interventions have been shown to be the most effective in mitigating the symptoms and effects of ASD. Instead of tackling the physical bases that might underlie ASD, behavioral interventions strive to bring about desired productive behaviors. The literature reveals that the effects of ASD are best mitigated through behavioral interventions, suggesting that there is a clear direction for further study and implementation in the field.

Paper For Above Instructions

Title: Behavioral Analysis Approaches to Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

This literature review investigates behavioral analysis approaches to treating Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), focusing on both child and adult populations. Although interventions primarily target children, this review highlights the equal importance of adult interventions due to the myriad challenges this population faces. The review synthesizes findings from various scholarly articles, indicating that behavioral interventions yield moderate to high successes in improving life outcomes. Through the integration of behavioral analysis and insights from related fields, such as neuroscience, this paper advocates for a more comprehensive and inclusive treatment model for adults with ASD.

Introduction

The treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has predominantly centered on children, leaving adults with limited resources and research addressing their specific needs. As such, I was compelled to explore this topic due to my interest in psychology and the often-overlooked plight of adults living with ASD. My personal and academic experiences have cemented my passion for this line of research, particularly as I aim to bridge the gaps in therapeutic practices that serve individuals across their lifespan. In this examination, I focus on the efficacy of behavioral interventions and propose an integrative approach that considers biomedical insights into autism.

Well-Being and Self-Sufficiency

The aspirations for individuals with ASD should transcend clinical remediation; they should aim for a state of well-being and self-sufficiency. Primary interventions that have emerged as successful in achieving these goals are behavioral therapies designed to enhance social skills, facilitate independence, and improve the quality of life for individuals. Lai et al. (2014) emphasized that a core objective of these treatments is to minimize the behavioral differences that characterize ASD in comparison to neurotypical individuals. Moreover, Anderson et al. (2017) linked enhanced job opportunities to improved societal integration, underscoring the need for enduring employment for individuals on the spectrum.

Success of Behavioral Interventions

Various studies have showcased the efficacy of behavioral interventions. Roth et al. (2014) indicated an 81% success rate among the reviewed behavioral strategies for individuals with ASD. Moreover, Fein et al. (2013) found that optimal outcome (OO) individuals—those who no longer meet the criteria for ASD—exhibit obtaining comparable social interaction scores to their neurotypical peers. This reveals the potential of effective early behavioral interventions in shaping positive trajectories. The findings reinforce that behavioral techniques, rather than strictly focusing on the neurological aspects of autism, yield significant behavioral changes and improvements.

Need for Research on Adults with ASD

A significant gap remains in the research focus on adults with ASD, highlighting a crucial need for academia to invest in studies addressing adult populations. Feins et al. (2013) pointed out that despite the acknowledged reality of OO individuals, there exists scant qualitative data regarding their specific journeys beyond the ASD diagnosis. Additionally, Roth et al. (2014) underscored the limitations of existing studies and reiterated the necessity of expanding the scope of behavioral intervention research. While vocational training is predominantly emphasized, a multidimensional approach that embraces various therapeutic methods must be prioritized to ensure comprehensive care for adults with ASD.

Conclusion

In conclusion, behavioral interventions stand out as the most effective means of reducing the challenges faced by adults with autism, promoting independence, and yielding success in various life domains. Continuing to prioritize research in this area is paramount in developing innovative approaches that can cater to the unique needs of adults with ASD. As I pursue a career in psychological counseling, the insights gained from this literature review will guide me to formulate holistic treatment strategies that integrate established behavioral therapies with emerging neuroscience research. This interdisciplinary vision drives my commitment to clients, ensuring their needs are forefront in my practice.

References

• Anderson, A., Moore, D. W., Rausa, V. C., Finkelstein, S., Pearl, S., & Stevenson, M. (2017). A systematic review of interventions for adults with autism spectrum disorder to promote employment. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 4(1), 26–38.
• Anderson, D. K., Liang, J.W., & Lord, C. (2014). Predicting young adult outcome among more and less cognitively able individuals with autism spectrum disorders. The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 55(5), 485–494.
• Baio, J., Wiggins, L., Christensen, D. L., Maenner, M. J., Daniels, J., Warren, Z., Kurzius-Spencer, M., Zahorodny, W., Rosenberg, C. R., White, T., Durkin, M. S., Imm, P., Nikolaou, L., Yeargin-Allsopp, M., Lee, L-C, Harrington, R., Lopez, M., Fitzgerald, R. T, Hewitt, A., & Dowling, N. F. (2018). Prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among children aged 8 years—autism and developmental disabilities monitoring network, 11 sites, United States, 2014. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 67(SS-6).
• Fein, D., Barton, M., Eigsti, I.-M., Kelley, E., Naigles, L., Schultz, R. T., Stevens, M., Helt, M., Orinstein, A., Rosenthal, M., Troyb, E., & Tyson, K. (2013). Optimal outcomes in individuals with a history of autism. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 54(2), 195–205.
• Lai, M.-C., Lombardo, M. V., & Baron-Cohen, S. (2014). Autism. The Lancet, 383(9920), 896–910.
• Roth, M. E., Gillis, J. M., & Reed, F. D. D. (2014). A meta-analysis of behavioral interventions for adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders. Journal of Behavioral Education, 23(2), 258–286.