Question

Every time hername is spoken, Simone is rewarded with her favorite candy if she makes eye contact with her teacher. Simone most likely has been diagnosed with and is being treated with a. ADHD; play therapy b. ADHD; applied behavioral analysis c. autism spectrum disorder; play therapy d. autism spectrum disorder; applied behavioral analysis

Short answer

Simone most likely has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and is being treated with applied behavioral analysis.

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the Behavioural Technique

Simone is rewarded with candy when she makes eye contact whenever her name is spoken. The scenario described suggests a specific behavioral technique known as positive reinforcement, where a desired behaviour is rewarded to increase its occurrence. It is a common strategy used in applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.

Evaluate the Disorders

While both ADHD and autism spectrum disorders can manifest some problems with attention and behaviour, the motivational reinforcement involved in the teacher-student interaction leans more towards a behaviour typical of autism spectrum disorder. Children with autism often struggle with social cues like eye contact.

Match the Behavioural Technique with Treatment Method

Now that we've established that the described situation appears to be a utilization of the positive reinforcement technique and likely pertains to the behaviours seen in autism spectrum disorder, we can match the technique to the correct therapeutic intervention. Considering that ABA therapy often employs the use of positive reinforcement, we can safely assume that this is the method being implemented with Simone.

Select the Correct Answer

The technique used with Simone is a descriptive scenario of applied behavior analysis (ABA), typically used with individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Therefore, the correct answer is choice d. Autism spectrum disorder; applied behavioral analysis.

Key concepts

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and a tendency to engage in repetitive behaviors. These difficulties often appear in early childhood and can affect daily functioning. Some key points about ASD include:

• Communication Issues: Individuals may have trouble with verbal and non-verbal communication. This can manifest as delays in speech development, difficulty understanding social cues, and avoiding or struggling to maintain eye contact.
• Social Interaction: People with ASD often find it challenging to form relationships and understand social norms. This can lead to a preference for solitude or difficulty in participating in group activities.
• Repetitive Behaviors: This includes repeated movements, adherence to specific routines, and fixation on certain topics or objects.

There is no single cause of ASD, but it is believed to be influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with ASD.

Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is a core strategy in behavior modification that involves rewarding desired behavior to increase the likelihood of it occurring again. It’s a principle often applied within the context of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

• Increases Desired Behavior: By following a desired behavior with a rewarding stimulus, such as giving candy when making eye contact, the likelihood of that behavior recurring is increased.
• Immediate Reward: The timing of the reward is crucial; it needs to be given immediately after the desired behavior to create a clear connection between the actions and the reward.
• Individualized Approach: What serves as a positive reinforcer can vary greatly among individuals. It's important to identify personal motivators that can drive behavior change effectively.

Overall, positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in ABA therapy to encourage skill development and behavioral improvements, especially in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Behavioral Intervention

Behavioral intervention refers to a variety of strategies used in therapy to change behavior patterns. In the context of autism and ABA, it focuses predominantly on enhancing communication, social skills, and reducing problematic behaviors.

• Evidence-Based Approach: Behavioral interventions are structured and based on scientific principles to ensure effectiveness. Often, these interventions are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals.
• Progress Monitoring: Techniques include constant monitoring and assessment to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Adjustments are made as needed to achieve desired outcomes.
• Collaborative Effort: Successful behavioral interventions often involve collaboration between therapists, parents, and teachers to provide a consistent support system.

These interventions are vital in supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder to develop skills necessary for improved daily living, providing a foundation for long-term success.