Association for Behavior Analysis International

The scientific literature on the efficacy of focused interventions and comprehensive treatment models provides a solid and expanding basis upon which to make decisions about instructional practices for children and youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in inclusive settings. The next challenge for the field is to foster the implementation of such practices in school, home, and community settings. The application of applied behavior analysis principles to implementation science provides one basis for moving practice out of the laboratory or applied research context and into the lives of children and youth with ASD. In this presentation, I will first examine the processes for verifying the efficacy of scientifically-based practices, as well as describe the practices that researchers have identified across reviews. Next I will describe factors that influence practitioners' implementation of practices in classrooms and strategies for fostering implementation. The presentation will emphasize the selection of practices that may be most useful for promoting learning and inclusion in general education and community settings.

Despite the well-documented effects (positive and otherwise) of a number of autism treatments, there still exists considerable controversy over treatment selection. The panel will discuss the use of scientific practices in selecting and modifying autism treatment, including (a) evaluating the literature to identify the available support for general treatment approaches and specific practices, (b) using empirical methods to evaluate practices that have no published evidence, and (c) educating others to critically evaluate and respond to the existing evidence. Panelists will first respond to specific questions provided by the moderator, after which questions will be accepted from audience members.

This panel session will focus on legislative actions at the state and federal level that are now impacting the quality and availability of behavior analytic services. As the demand for specialized autism services has increased, behavior analysts and supportive parents in several states have been successful in having dedicated language inserted into legislation so that the key role of behavior analysts and behavior analytic services was recognized. Importantly, efforts spearheaded by Autism Speaks have resulted in significant expansion of insurance coverage so as to cover autism services. New Florida legislation offers a model for the pro-ABA stance listing, for example, and lists ABA first among four specific therapies and recognizes the role of the "Board Certified Behavior Analyst" in the provision of ABA services. Such legislative actions do not happen by accident but rather as a result of skillful planning and coordination of those interested in promoting behavioral services. Other issues beyond insurance funding for ABA autism services will be discussed. The panelists will answer questions from the audience and respond to a starter question on what they see as the most important legislative development or trend in relation to ABA and autism.