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For individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the transition into young adulthood and independence involves a significant shift in priorities and support needs. However, the same applied behavior analysis strategies proven effective in childhood remain invaluable.
For individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the transition into young adulthood and independence involves a significant shift in priorities and support needs. However, the same applied behavior analysis strategies proven effective in childhood remain invaluable.
Key Transition Periods
Key Transition Periods
Some common transition periods when coordinated ABA services are beneficial include:
Some common transition periods when coordinated ABA services are beneficial include:
- Moving from school into job/career or post-secondary education
- Relocating from the family home into residential program or independent living
- Developing independent skills like transportation, finance, and self-care
- Establishing new community connections, social networks, and resources
- Ensuring proper mental and physical health monitoring is in place
During these pivotal life changes, the continuation of familiar ABA principles, data collection methods, and intervention processes provides guidance and stability.
During these pivotal life changes, the continuation of familiar ABA principles, data collection methods, and intervention processes provides guidance and stability.
Comprehensive Transition Planning
Comprehensive Transition Planning
Well before age 18, person-centered planning should commence to map out a comprehensive, individualized transition strategy. This involves:
Well before age 18, person-centered planning should commence to map out a comprehensive, individualized transition strategy. This involves:
- Establishing a multi-disciplinary team of providers and supports
- Completing functional life skills assessments across work, living, social, and other domains
- Setting specific, observable goals linked to evidence-based interventions
- Identifying needed resources, assistive technologies, and accommodations
- Developing crisis prevention and safety plans
- Determining which skills require ongoing teaching vs. maintenance
By proactively designing an ABA-based transition blueprint tailored to abilities and preferences, successful pathways toward greater independence emerge.
By proactively designing an ABA-based transition blueprint tailored to abilities and preferences, successful pathways toward greater independence emerge.
Promoting Self-Determination
Promoting Self-Determination
A guiding principle throughout the transition is involving the individual with ASD at the highest level possible. From articulating their perspectives, interests, and values to making choices and monitoring their own progress - self-advocacy and autonomy remain priorities.
A guiding principle throughout the transition is involving the individual with ASD at the highest level possible. From articulating their perspectives, interests, and values to making choices and monitoring their own progress - self-advocacy and autonomy remain priorities.
With proper transition planning and continuity of supportive ABA services, today's youth with autism can flourish into thriving, self-determined adults.
With proper transition planning and continuity of supportive ABA services, today's youth with autism can flourish into thriving, self-determined adults.
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