Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice, Vol 23(4), Nov 2023, 238-253; doi:10.1037/bar0000277
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex and heterogenous, neurodevelopmental disorder. Interventions based in applied behavior analysis (ABA) are common for children with ASD with marked improvements demonstrated in communication, social, and adaptive functioning. Two common models of ABA are parent-mediated and paraprofessional-mediated, both of which have strong empirical support. With all 50 States requiring insurance coverage for people with ASD, it is important to evaluate and understand the effectiveness of ABA in community-based settings. The current study evaluated the effectiveness of two models of ABA, paraprofessional-mediated and parent-mediated, in a community-based setting across 106 participants ages 3–7 with a diagnosis of ASD. Results revealed both models of ABA to produce significant and positive improvements in adaptive and communicative functioning on two outcome measures, the Vineland and Verbal Behavior Milestones Assessment and Placement Program. Additionally, significant differences were observed between parent-mediated ABA and paraprofessional-mediated ABA with those in parent-mediated ABA having greater improvement in the socialization domain of the Vineland. With the most recent prevalence rates of ASD being one in 36, it is vital to have options for families when considering various supports and interventions for their child with ASD that are effective. This research underscores the effectiveness of ABA in community-based settings for young children with ASD. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)