The “Autism, Disability and ABA” SIG focuses on topics regarding the development of ABA in Italy, with a focus point on the area of autism, one of the main fields of application, and disability. Currently, the most supported intervention for individuals with a diagnosis with autism is based on the application of the scientific laws of ABA (Reichow, 2012). Research has demonstrated that individuals with autism can achieve the same results, in comparison to their peers, by the application and development of ABA interventions (Lovaas, 1987, McEachin et al., 1993).

However, it is of essential importance to mention that to make such intervention work in the most effective way, it is necessary to implement specific and concrete ABA techniques, in order to achieve the desired results (Leaf et al. 2016). Such problem is particularly relevant here in Italy, since now a day there is a big different between the application of “higher standard levels” of ABA (based on measurements, quantitate data analysis and technically supported) and “lower standard levels” of ABA (application without any reference to the scientific laws). The main theme of interest in the “Autism, Disability and ABA” SIG is on the importance of the diffusion of the scientific ABA, that during the last year has become of importance and essential application in our country.

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Klintwall L, Eldevik S, Eikeseth S. Narrowing the gap: Effects of intervention on developmental trajectories in autism. Autism. 2015;19(1):53-63. doi:10.1177/1362361313510067

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Glen O. Sallows, Tamlynn D. Graupner, William E. MacLean Jr.; Intensive Behavioral Treatment for Children With Autism: Four-Year Outcome and Predictors. Am J Ment Retard 1 November 2005; 110 (6): 417–438. doi: https://doi.org/10.1352/0895-8017(2005)110[417:IBTFCW]2.0.CO;2

Geraldine Dawson, Sally Rogers, Jeffrey Munson, Milani Smith, Jamie Winter, Jessica Greenson, Amy Donaldson, Jennifer Varley; Randomized, Controlled Trial of an Intervention for Toddlers With Autism: The Early Start Denver Model. Pediatrics Jan 2010; 125 (1) e17-e23; DOI: 10.1542/peds.2009-0958