A Parent’s Guide to Understanding How ABA Has Grown and Changed
If you’re exploring ways to support a child with autism, you’ve probably heard of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Whether your child has already been diagnosed or you are considering diagnostic testing, it’s natural to want clear information on the next steps.
ABA therapy is currently the most widely insurance-approved and evidence-based treatment for children with autism.
It is recommended by the U.S. Surgeon General and many pediatric organizations because of its strong research foundation and measurable outcomes. While other therapies, like speech therapy, occupational therapy, feeding therapy, and counseling, also play an important role, ABA is often the primary intervention covered by insurance for autism-specific needs.
In this article, we’ll take a look at where ABA started, how it’s evolved, and how Westside’s modern, compassionate approach is helping kids thrive today.
A Brief History of Autism
Understanding how autism support has evolved helps us appreciate the progress toward more inclusive, compassionate care.
Early Understandings in the Medical Community
The term autism was first used in the early 1900s, but it wasn’t until 1943 that American psychiatrist Dr. Leo Kanner published a paper describing a group of children with unique social and communication differences. Around the same time, Austrian pediatrician Dr. Hans Asperger observed similar traits in children who had strong language skills but struggled socially. This is what later became known as Asperger’s Syndrome.
For decades, autism was misunderstood and even misdiagnosed. Back then, there were very few resources, and families often felt isolated and unsupported.
Shifting Definitions and Diagnoses
Over time, the medical community began to recognize that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, not something caused by parenting or external factors. In 1980, autism was officially included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III), providing a clearer framework for diagnosis.
In 2013, the DSM-5 redefined the diagnostic criteria, combining several previously separate diagnoses (including Asperger’s Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder) under one umbrella: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This change emphasized that autism exists on a spectrum, with a wide range of strengths, challenges, and support needs.
Growing Awareness and Support
Today, awareness of autism has grown tremendously. Early intervention services, inclusive education, and community support are more widely available than ever. Social media and advocacy groups have amplified the voices of autistic individuals, encouraging a shift toward neurodiversity and acceptance.
The Origins of ABA Therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis has its roots in the 1960s as a science-based approach to understanding and improving human behavior. It began when psychologist Dr. Ivar Lovaas applied principles of behaviorism – founded by B.F. Skinner – to help children with autism learn new skills and reduce behaviors that interfered with daily life.
A Science-Based Beginning
ABA is built on the idea that behavior is influenced by what happens before, during, and after the behavior. This is known as the ABC’s – (A) for antecedent, (B) for behavior, and (C) for consequence. Behavior change can be achieved by manipulating the antecedent or consequence.
ABA in the Early Days
In the 1970s and 1980s, ABA therapy began to gain traction as a treatment for children with autism. These early programs were highly structured and focused heavily on behavior change through repetition and reinforcement.
Traditional ABA during this time often involved what’s called Discrete Trial Training (DTT). This approach broke down skills, like identifying colors, making eye contact, or following instructions, into small, isolated steps. A therapist would present a prompt, the child would respond, and the therapist would immediately reinforce correct responses, often with rewards like candy, tokens, or praise.
Children might practice the same skill dozens or even hundreds of times in a single session. The idea was that repetition would help solidify learning and reduce problem behaviors.
The Limitations of Early ABA
This structured method had its limitations. Therapy often felt rigid and unnatural, with little room for creativity, play, or child choice. Generalization, meaning the ability to use new skills in real-life situations, was often overlooked.
Early ABA often emphasized normalizing behavior, sometimes at the expense of a child’s comfort, preferences, or autonomy. For example, some programs focused heavily on training eye contact or suppressing behaviors like hand-flapping, which we now understand may be ways for children to self-regulate or communicate.
Controversies and Concerns
In recent years, many autistic adults and advocacy groups have raised valid concerns about the early forms of ABA therapy. Traditional approaches often placed a strong emphasis on compliance, encouraging children to appear “less autistic” – rather than honoring their individual needs, communication styles, and natural ways of engaging with the world.
The Transformation of ABA
These voices have played a powerful role in driving change. Today’s ABA looks very different: it’s child-centered, flexible, and rooted in respect. We now understand autism through a broader, more compassionate lens. We recognize that every brain is different, and those differences are not deficits to be corrected.
Modern ABA therapists focus on building trust, connection, and using play-based strategies. Instead of rigid drills, therapists now prioritize meaningful, child-led goals in natural, everyday settings. They help children gain real-life skills in ways that feel comfortable and empowering.
The term neurodiversity-affirming is often used to describe providers who support children as they are, helping them build skills and confidence without trying to change them. At Westside, that means creating a safe, supportive environment where each child can thrive, feel seen, and live a happy, fulfilling life.
Westside’s Modern ABA Approach
At Westside Children’s Therapy, we follow a modern, compassionate model of ABA rooted in Greg Hanley’s “My Way” approach. Developed by clinical psychologist and behavior analyst Dr. Hanley, this philosophy emphasizes empathy, joy, and meaningful connection between the child and therapist.
Our therapy is built around play-based learning, driven by the child’s interests. Sessions take place in bright, kid-friendly clinics, often alongside peers. We believe that lasting progress happens when therapy is fun, respectful, and empowering.
We prioritize:
- Leading with empathy
- Joyful, engaging interactions
- Positive, trusting relationships
- A child-centered approach in real-life settings
We work closely with families every step of the way, making sure you feel supported, informed, and confident in your child’s care.
What About Scheduling?
Many families assume ABA must be 40 hours per week, but that’s not always the case. At Westside, we personalize each therapy schedule based on your child’s needs, goals, and stage of development. Whether your child benefits from a few sessions per week or a more comprehensive plan, we’ll help you find the right balance.
To learn more about ABA therapy, ABA groups, or other Westside services, please click the link below or call us at (815) 469-1500 and our team will walk you through the process and answer any questions you have.
