Buckle in, folks. We're getting aware!
ABA, or Applied Behavior Analysis, is promoted as a necessary intervention for autistic children. However, it's important that you understand that ABA is abusive. Yes, even the "new" ABA.
Before we begin, make sure you understand what autism is.
What is Autism? (a non-pathologized explanation of autism by an autistic autism researcher)
And now, on to the explanations of how and why ABA is abusive...
I Abused Children, And So Do You: A Response To An ABA Apologist
The Great Behavior Fallacy: Why The New York Times Is Wrong To Think That ABA Can Treat Autism.
Is ABA Really "Dog Training for Children"? A Professional Dog Trainer Weighs In.
An Open Letter to the NYT: Acknowledge the Controversy Surrounding ABA
Evidence of increased PTSD symptoms in autistics exposed to ABA
Personal stories from those formerly enrolled in ABA
Ask an Autistic #5 - What is ABA (video)
My Thoughts on ABA by Amy Sequenzia
What’s the Big Deal With ABA Therapy?
ABA and Gay Conversion Therapy Compared
If you still need more information/evidence, here's a giant list of links:
The Great Big ABA Opposition Resource List. (see the bottom of the page for alternatives to ABA*)
And, if you're still here after reading all that, you can have a treat:
Understanding Neurotypicals. (a pathologized view of neurotypicality)
*"Alternatives" may not be the right word. We don't need alternatives to an abusive and ineffective so-called therapy that can't be reformed. We need supports (not treatments) that are tailored to our individual needs, just like everybody else. Maybe "things you can do that have a decent chance of helping an autistic person in your care to have a better life, which absolutely does not include any form of ABA".














