Applied Behavioral Analysis:
Applied Behavioral Analysis ( ABA) is the widely accepted therapy for autism. In ABA, the therapists help children to modify their behavior so that they will learn the lessons of socializing. They provide extrinsic rewards to elicit positive behavior. A continuous and regular analysis is necessary to check for improvements. ABA therapy aims on improving the ability of a child to focus on a particular task. With the help of discrete trial training, specific skills can be acquired. Pivotal Response Training is also applied as it is intended to train the child in the method of socializing by educating the parents. The aim is to make them responsive to a variety of contexts. It is modelled in a way to make the child react in accordance with a command or request.
Biomedical Treatment:
The Autism Research Institute based in America has established "Defeat Autism Now" (DAN) project. They consider autism as a biomedical disorder and train doctors accordingly to implement the treatment. Researchers in DAN try to improve the immunity of the child by alleviating the adverse effects of external toxins and vaccines. Often, DAN practitioners prescribe dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals and amino acids. They advise parents of children with autism to avoid gluten that is present in wheat and dairy products. They keep the parents well informed about the side effects of treatment.
Anti-psychotic Treatment:
It is pharmacotherapy which uses medication to reduce the irritability, hyperactivity, aggressive and stereotypical behaviour in children. These medications don’t treat autism as whole, but the symptoms can be treated. Usually, sedatives and stimulants are used for the medication. The negative implications of this treatment are the side effects that may sometimes become severe.
Visual Therapy: Some children with autism have the ability to visualise their thoughts. Such nonverbal children can benefit from the "Picture Exchange Communication System" in which various social situations and desirable responses are pictorially represented. Children with autism are allowed to understand and develop social skills.
Other treatment options:
There are a number of other therapies which treat specific problems arising due to autism. As autism impacts the physical development of the child, he/she needs the help of a physical therapist for help in developing effective motor skills. Children who are sensitive to light, noise and touch can be subjected to sensory integration or occupational therapy which control responses. These are intended to improve their behaviour by alleviating their anxiety. A child with autism can be either talkative or an introvert. Even if they do talk they may not know how to talk according to the situation and context of the communication. A speech therapist helps children with autism to develop proper communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal. Play therapy teaches the basis of socializing and communication through play.
