Early intensive behavior intervention (EIBI), also known as the Lovaas method, is a form of Applied behavior analysis (ABA) developed by psychology professor Dr. Ivar Lovaas at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). A scientific method to learning, the technique consists of an intensive behavioral intervention which is carried out early in the development of autistic children, and is the only therapy to have gone under approval by the United States Surgeon General's office in 1999. It involves discrete-trial teaching, breaking skills down into their most basic components, rewarding positive performance with praise and reinforcers, and then "generalizing" skills in a naturalistic setting. By implementing the intervention for 30–40 hours a week, children under five can gain language, academic, and basic living skills while others may fully recover. The technique is also noted for its previous use of aversives to punish unwanted behaviors.
"ABA," as it is referred to by the general public, was previously called Behavior modification and is based on findings from the experimental analysis of behavior pioneered by B.F. Skinner in the 1930s. Applied behavior analysis is the process of conducting a Functional behavior assessment (FBA) and applying an intervention that will produce socially appropriate behavior.
Read more about Early Intensive Behavior Intervention: Implementation, Effectiveness, Aversives, Cost of Care, Criticisms
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