Why Is ABA Therapy Surrounded by Controversy

Last Updated on July 7, 2025 by John Hookway

ABA therapy causes strong feelings in 2025. Some families notice better talking, social skills, and daily habits when therapy fits each child.

Others worry about the Controversies and Criticisms of ABA, especially its past focus on following rules and controlling behavior.

New ways now stress respect for neurodiversity and using positive rewards. Families need to think about good and bad sides, look at their values, and get help from trained experts to make smart choices.

Key Takeaways

• ABA therapy used to have harsh and painful methods, but now it uses kind and positive ways.
• Some people worry ABA makes kids follow rules too much, which can stop them from being themselves.
• Many autistic adults say ABA made them hide who they are, which hurt their feelings and made them feel lost.
• Today, ABA is more respectful—it sets personal goals, accepts differences, and works closely with families.
• Studies show ABA helps many kids learn to talk, make friends, and do daily tasks—but it doesn’t work the same for everyone.
• Families should ask about the provider’s training, therapy goals, how they check progress, and if they use kind, positive methods.
• Watch for warning signs like no progress, high stress, or harsh methods—therapy should always feel safe and kind.
• ABA is just one kind of therapy—families should explore all options and keep checking if it’s still right for their child.

Controversies and Criticisms of ABA

Historical Practices

Aversive Methods

In the past, ABA therapy used harsh ways to change behavior. Therapists sometimes gave electric shocks or made loud noises. They also took away food to stop certain actions.

These things started in the 1960s with Dr. Ivar Lovaas and others. They ran strict programs in clinics. Today, most people think these ways were wrong and hurtful.

A 2018 survey by Kupferstein showed 46% of 460 people who had ABA met PTSD criteria. This shows that old ABA methods caused harm for some people. Modern ABA almost never uses these harsh ways, but the history still affects how people see it.

Public Perception

People often think about ABA’s past when they hear about it. Many families and advocates remember stories about harsh rules.

News and social media sometimes talk about bad experiences. This can make parents worry about trying ABA. The Controversies and Criticisms of ABA often ask if the therapy respects autistic people’s rights.

Some think ABA tries to make kids act less autistic, which feels like losing their identity. Others say ABA has changed, but its old reputation is still there.

Focus on Compliance

Autonomy Concerns

ABA therapy often teaches kids to follow directions. Some people worry this can limit a child’s independence.

They think always obeying adults can stop kids from saying “no” or sharing their needs. Studies show ABA uses guided compliance and rewards to help kids follow instructions. But some reports say kids in ABA may not get to stop therapy when they want.

This can make them feel helpless or anxious. The Controversies and Criticisms of ABA include worries that too much focus on following rules can take away a child’s control.

Self-Advocacy

Self-advocacy means speaking up for yourself and your needs. Some autistic adults say ABA did not teach them this skill. Instead, they learned to do what others wanted, even if it felt wrong.

Some reports talk about lasting emotional pain from ABA that focused on forced compliance and taking away rewards.

Critics say ABA should help kids learn to share their needs, not just follow orders. The Controversies and Criticisms of ABA often say therapy should build confidence and help kids express themselves.

Emotional Impact

Trauma Reports

Many autistic people and their families have shared stories about feeling hurt by ABA. Some say they felt trauma from being stopped from doing natural things, like hand-flapping or rocking.

Kupferstein’s 2018 study found kids who had ABA showed more PTSD symptoms than those who did not. This suggests some ABA practices can cause emotional pain.

Critics say stopping repetitive behaviors may not help learning and can take away important coping skills.

Mental Health

Mental health is a big part of the Controversies and Criticisms of ABA. Some studies show ABA can help kids with autism learn to handle emotions, talk, and make friends.

Programs like the Early Start Denver Model and Secret Agent Society have helped kids feel better emotionally. ABA uses things like pictures, role-playing, and rewards to teach these skills.

But some families and advocates worry about bad effects, like anxiety, low self-esteem, or feeling helpless. They want more research to learn about both the good and bad sides of ABA for mental health.

Note: The debate about ABA therapy has both good and bad stories. Families should ask questions and find programs that respect each child’s needs and feelings.

Identity Suppression

Conformity Pressure

Many people are worried about ABA therapy. They think it makes autistic kids act like other kids. Therapists try to stop things like hand-flapping or rocking.

They also want kids to look people in the eye. These actions help autistic people feel safe or show feelings. If therapy stops these actions, kids may feel they must hide themselves.

• Studies say hiding autistic traits to fit in is called social camouflaging. This can make people tired, lonely, and feel fake.
• Research shows this pressure can cause mental health problems. These include depression, anxiety, and autistic burnout.
• Kupferstein (2018) found people who had ABA were 86% more likely to have PTSD. This shows a strong link between therapy and trauma from hiding who you are.

Some experts, like Wilkenfeld and McCarthy (2020), ask if it is right to make kids change who they are. They say making kids act like others can hurt their self-esteem and happiness.

Many autistic adults say therapy made them act in ways that did not feel true. This is a big reason why people still talk about the Controversies and Criticisms of ABA.

Loss of Expression

ABA therapy sometimes tries to stop behaviors that help kids cope or talk. For example, a child might flap hands when excited or stressed. If therapy stops this, the child may lose a way to show feelings.

Studies by Anderson (2023) and Cumming et al. (2020) say ABA felt traumatic for some people. These studies show losing ways to act naturally can hurt for a long time. Kids may feel like no one understands them or that they cannot speak up.

• Some kids learn to hide their real feelings so they do not get corrected.
• Others stop showing joy or excitement in ways that feel right to them.
• Over time, not being able to express themselves can make kids sad, upset, or even angry.

The Controversies and Criticisms of ABA often ask if therapy lets kids be themselves. Many people think kids should be able to show who they are in ways that feel safe.

Families and experts now wonder if therapy should help kids fit in or let them be themselves. This question is still a big part of the ABA debate in 2025.

Perspectives from the Autistic Community

Lived Experiences

Many autistic adults have strong feelings about ABA therapy. They share stories about how ABA changed their lives.

Some remember harsh things like slaps or shocks. Others do not like the word “intervention.” It makes them feel like something is wrong with them.

They say ABA sometimes stops natural things like stimming. Stimming helps them feel calm or happy.

• Many adults think ABA tried to make them act less autistic.
• Some call ABA “autistic conversion therapy” because it tries to change them.
• The community cares about neurodiversity, acceptance, and independence.
• People want therapies that do not hurt or hide who they are.

A recent survey tried to learn about these stories but had problems. Most people in the survey were White and female.

Less than 30% had ABA as kids. Many autistic people with intellectual disabilities were not in the survey.

The survey showed not everyone agreed with ABA’s goals. This means people have many different opinions. More research is needed to understand everyone’s stories.

Ethical Issues

Ethical worries are still important for the autistic community. Many advocates say ABA sometimes ignores basic rights.

These include independence and informed consent. They worry ABA makes people obey too much. This can hurt their dignity.

“Therapies should respect choices and keep people safe,” many autistic advocates say.

Some old ABA ways used punishment or negative rewards. These can cause anxiety and low self-esteem. There are also reports of mental health problems.

These include more depression and even thoughts of suicide for some who had ABA. Getting informed consent can be hard or not clear.

Many people want ABA to stop using punishment. They want therapy to be positive and respectful. They ask for therapies that respect neurodiversity and help people live happy, independent lives.

Quality of Life

Quality of life means more than just changing how someone acts. It includes feelings, friends, making choices, and feeling part of a group.

Most ABA studies only look at skills like talking or following rules. Few studies check if ABA helps people feel happy or satisfied with life.

Experts say ABA should include goals for quality of life. Therapists should ask clients what matters most to them. They should help them reach those goals. This can make therapy better and help autistic people have good lives.

Support for ABA Therapy

Effectiveness

Many studies say ABA therapy helps kids with autism learn skills. Researchers found that early and strong ABA helps kids talk, make friends, and do things alone.

In the 1980s, Dr. Ivar Lovaas showed almost half of his students reached normal school levels after lots of ABA. Newer studies show the same thing.

Kids who start ABA at age two and get 25 to 40 hours a week often get better at talking, daily life, and learning. Big health groups like the US Surgeon General and the American Psychological Association say ABA works.

ABA uses things like positive rewards, short lessons, and teaching in real life. These ways help kids learn skills one step at a time. Studies show kids in ABA do better with daily tasks and making friends than kids who do not get this therapy.

These numbers mean ABA plans work well and can be trusted.

Positive Outcomes

Families often talk about how ABA therapy helps their kids. Many parents see their kids learn to talk, play, and do things by themselves.

Research shows ABA helps with language, solving problems, and daily skills. Kids who get ABA for one to three years often get much better at thinking and talking.

Studies show success rates from 63% to 89%. Tools like the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales help check these changes.

• Kids often learn to dress, eat, and take care of themselves.
• ABA helps kids handle feelings and make friends.
• When families help and experts watch, therapy works better.

ABA can happen in person or online, and both ways work well.

Individualization

ABA therapy works best when it matches each child’s needs. Therapists check what each child needs and pick the best ways to teach.

They listen to families and respect their culture and values. This helps kids feel cared for and understood.

Therapists break big jobs into small steps. Kids learn each step until they can do the whole thing. This helps kids feel more sure of themselves and do more on their own. When ABA fits the child, it brings better results and happier families.

Evolution of ABA

Modern Approaches

ABA therapy is very different now than before. In the past, programs had strict rules and sometimes used harsh ways.

Today, most therapists use kind and gentle methods to teach kids. Modern ABA uses positive reinforcement to help kids learn.

Therapists give rewards for good actions instead of punishing bad ones. They use small prompts and slowly stop using them. This helps kids learn to do things by themselves.

Therapists make plans that fit each child’s needs. They find out what the child likes and use real-life examples to teach. Parents and caregivers are part of the learning process.

Research shows these flexible ways help kids get better at talking, making friends, and doing daily tasks. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) makes rules for training and ethics. These rules help keep therapy safe and up-to-date.

Modern ABA wants to help kids grow in ways that respect who they are.

Neurodiversity

The neurodiversity movement has changed how ABA works today. Many therapists now see autism as a different way of thinking, not a problem to fix.

They focus on what each person is good at and what they like. Therapists work with families and sometimes with autistic adults to set goals that matter to the child.

1. Some programs use play and real-life activities to teach new things.
2. Therapists often ask autistic people what goals are important to them.
3. Families and therapists work together to make sure therapy fits the child’s life.
4. Programs now have more activities that help kids feel accepted and valued.
5. Many experts say it is good to hire autistic consultants and use their advice.

Studies show these changes help kids feel happier and more included. Therapists now try to help kids do well in their own way, not just copy others.

Ethical Standards

Ethics are very important in modern ABA. The BACB has changed its code of ethics many times. Therapists must follow strict rules to protect clients’ rights and dignity. They need to use the best research, their own experience, and what the client wants to make choices.

Therapists must keep learning about ethics in special classes. States often make therapists take extra ethics training to keep their licenses.

Modern ABA does not use punishment and focuses on positive, person-centered plans. Therapists must respect each client’s choices and not cause harm.

Modern ABA uses these ideas to guide every step. This helps families trust that therapy will be safe, respectful, and helpful.

ABA in 2025

Compassionate Practices

ABA therapy in 2025 is kinder and more respectful. Therapists try to build good relationships with kids and families.

They listen to what families say and change their plans if needed. The field now wants therapists to show more care and understanding.

The BACB says therapists must treat everyone with respect. Training now teaches listening and working together.

• Many ABA centers make sessions fun and match each child’s interests.
• Families help more now. Parents, caregivers, and siblings join in through coaching and support.
• Kids join peer groups and playdates to make friends and feel confident.
• Therapists talk with families to make sure goals fit their culture and needs.

These changes help kids feel safe and important. Therapists also let kids say “no” and help them speak up for themselves. This way, kids do better and families trust therapists more.

Meaningful Goals

ABA in 2025 picks goals that matter to kids and families. Therapists set clear goals and check progress often.

They work with families to pick goals that fit each child’s life. Studies show that personal plans and checking progress help kids do well.

Therapists celebrate when kids reach goals and change plans as kids grow. They use data to make choices and keep families involved.

Focusing on goals that matter helps kids learn skills, feel sure of themselves, and be more independent.

Ongoing Challenges

ABA therapy still has problems in 2025. Not every child learns the same way. Some kids get much better at talking and thinking, but daily and social skills can be slower to improve.

Research shows that gains in daily living and adaptive skills are still small for many.

Ethical questions are still important. Therapists must use good methods but also respect each child’s choices and who they are.

Some families still worry about pressure to act like others or losing ways to express themselves. The field is looking for better ways to check quality of life and make sure therapy helps each child feel good.

New research and ideas from autistic people help ABA get better and meet every child’s needs.

Making Informed Choices

Questions for Providers

Families need to ask good questions when picking an ABA provider. These questions help families find safe and respectful therapy.

Here are some important things to ask:

1. What training do the therapists have? Look for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs).
2. How does the provider pick therapy goals? Goals should fit what the child and family need.
3. How do you check and share progress? Providers should use clear data and give updates often.
4. Who is in charge of the therapy, and are they nearby or far away?
5. How do you handle tough behaviors? Providers should use positive ways to help.
6. What do parents do in therapy? Ask about parent training and how parents can help.
7. Is the schedule flexible, and what are the costs and insurance choices?
8. How many staff will work with my child, and do staff change a lot?
9. What safety steps are used, like background checks for all workers?

Tip: Families should visit the center, watch a session, and talk to other parents if they can.

Recognizing Red Flags

Some signs show when an ABA provider may not use good methods. Families should look out for these warning signs:

Note: If a provider does not answer questions or will not let parents watch, families should be careful.

Exploring Alternatives

ABA therapy is not the only choice for kids with autism. Other therapies can help with different needs:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps older kids handle thoughts and feelings. Works best for kids who can talk about emotions.
• Speech Therapy: Helps kids talk better and understand words. Often used with ABA.
• Occupational Therapy (OT): Teaches daily skills and helps with sensory problems. Helps kids be more independent at home and school.

Families should talk to their doctor or a trusted expert to find the best mix of therapies for their child. Every child is different, so the right choice depends on what each family needs and wants.

Weighing Risks and Benefits

Individual Needs

Every child with autism has unique strengths and challenges. Families must look at what their child needs most.

Some children need help with talking or making friends. Others need support with daily tasks or handling emotions. ABA therapy can help in many of these areas, but it does not work the same for everyone.

Parents and caregivers should think about these questions:

• What are the child’s main goals?
• Does the child enjoy learning in a structured way?
• How does the child react to rewards or changes in routine?
• Are there behaviors that make life hard for the child or family?

A table can help families compare what matters most:

Tip: Families should talk with teachers, doctors, and therapists. They can help decide if ABA fits the child’s needs.

Some children may do better with other therapies or a mix of supports. No single plan works for every child. The best choice matches the child’s learning style, interests, and family values.

Ongoing Evaluation

Choosing ABA therapy is not a one-time decision. Families need to check often if the therapy helps their child. Progress can change over time. What works at first may not work later.

Key steps for ongoing evaluation include:

• Set clear, simple goals for the child.
• Track progress with notes, videos, or charts.
• Meet with the therapy team often to review results.
• Ask the child how they feel about therapy, if possible.
• Watch for signs of stress, boredom, or unhappiness.

Note: If a child seems upset or stops making progress, families should talk to the therapist right away.

Families can use a checklist to guide their review:

• Is the child learning new skills?
• Does the child seem happy and safe?
• Are the goals still important?
• Is the therapy respectful and positive?

If the answers are “no,” it may be time to change the plan or try something new. Regular checks help make sure therapy stays helpful and safe. Every child deserves support that fits their needs and helps them grow.

ABA therapy makes people feel many different things. Some families and experts remember problems from the past.

They worry about following rules too much and losing who you are. Others say ABA helps kids learn new skills and has changed for the better.

• Families need to know the good and bad parts.
• Every child should have a plan that matches what they are good at.

When families know all the facts, they can pick care that helps their child now and later.

FAQ

What is ABA therapy?

ABA therapy means Applied Behavior Analysis. Therapists use it to help people with autism learn new things. It also helps lower behaviors that cause problems. ABA uses rewards and teaches skills in small steps.

Why do some people dislike ABA therapy?

Some people think ABA therapy is too strict or tries to change who someone is. Others say they felt sad or stressed during sessions. Many critics worry about old ways that used harsh punishments.

Has ABA therapy changed over time?

Yes, ABA therapy is very different now. Most therapists use positive rewards and focus on what each child needs. They do not use punishment and listen to families and autistic people.

Can ABA therapy cause harm?

ABA therapy helps many kids, but some say it caused trauma or made them lose ways to show feelings. Families should watch for stress and talk to therapists if they worry.

Are there alternatives to ABA therapy?

Yes, families can try other therapies. Some choices are speech therapy, occupational therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Each one helps with different skills.

Tip: Families should talk to doctors or experts to find the best therapy for their child.

How can families choose a good ABA provider?

Families should ask about staff training, how goals are picked, and how progress is checked. They should look for providers who respect the child’s needs and use positive ways.

Does ABA therapy work for every child?

ABA therapy helps many kids, but not all. Some kids learn better with other supports. Families should check progress often and change plans if needed.