Efficacy of Applied Behavior Analysis Method on Cognitive and Social Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is founded on behaviorism approach, which holds significant applications in the field of behavior change. The current study aims to investigate the efficacy of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) method intervention on cognitive and social skills of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Method: The current research was conducted as a semi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest control group design. Statistical population includes all children aged 7- 14, diagnosed with autism with a record in Tehran Autism Association. Of these, 30 were selected and placed randomly in two experimental and control groups (15 in each group). Research tools included Ehler et al.'s (1999) ASSQ (Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire), Stone et al.'s Social Skills Assessment Questionnaire (2010), and the 5th edition of Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children. Results: The findings of the research depicted that the Applied Behavior Analysis method has a significant effect on the cognitive and social skills of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (P> 0.05). Conclusion: Educating parents in ABA method could effectively help develop these children in the fields of Cognitive and social skills.