While I maintain that Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is the gold standard for early intervention in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), discussing its drawbacks is crucial for a balanced perspective.
For an articulated argument against ABA, consider clicking here The Problem with Applied Behavior Analysis | Chloe Everett | TEDxUNCAsheville.
Here are four points of contention I have regarding what Chloe Everett presented:
1. Expert by Experience: Chloe's credentials to discuss ABA? She survived it as a kid and now wears her ASD diagnosis like a badge of honor—or a scar, depending on how you look at it.
2. Diagnosis Drama: She claims the label autistic, but is it just a self-diagnosis made in a moment of identity crisis, or did a professional actually give her the nod?
3. Mommy Knows Best: Her mom pulled the plug on ABA when it stopped fitting their needs. So the system functioned as intended in their case by allowing for adaptability.
4. Speaking for the Speechless: When people who might not even have autism try to be the voice for the entire community, it gets messy. With only half of those diagnosed having functional communication, are we really getting the full story, or just the version that speaks loudest or can speak at all?
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