A Systematic Review of Applied Behavior Analytic Interventions for Children with Autism in Mainland China

AbstractApplied behavior analysis (ABA)-based intervention  is typically utilized to support children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), which has been widely used across the world. However, little is known about the current extent of the utilization of applied behavior analysis for children with autism in China. This paper provides a systematic revie w on the ABA-based intervention studies conducted in Mainland China. Studies published in Chinese and English journals were included, and 35 empirical studies qualified for the selection criteria were analyzed. The results suggest that the Chinese ABA-based programs are generally effective. Am ong the overall publications on the ABA-based intervention, there is a limited number of empirical studies, but this type of studies increases in recent years. In addition, one characteristic of the Chinese programs is that parental involvement is emphasized. The review also reveals the wide use o f non-behavioral eclectic methods and the limit in the experimental design in some Chinese studies. The implications of these findings for research and practice are discussed.
Source: Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders - Category: Child Development Source Type: research