David Suzuki

ABA (UCLA/Lovass Model)Treatment for Autism

ABA (UCLA/Lovass Model) behavioral treatment is the only scientifically recognized and proven method for effective treatment of autism. This behavioral treatment is based on the methodology and guidelines established in the landmark UCLA "Young Autism Project." That research and the follow-up study were ground breaking. 

Children who received early, intensive autism treatment in this research project showed unprecedented improvements. Following treatment: 47% of the children in the early intensive treatment group achieved normal intellectual and educational functioning; 40% were able to be assigned to classes for the language-delayed; and, 10% were put into classrooms for the retarded. In contrast, of the control group children who received normally available services; only 2% achieved normal educational and intellectual function; 45% were put in languagedelayed classes; and, 53% were put in classrooms for the retarded. The follow-up study, done when the children were 11-12 years old, showed 44% were remained indistinguishable from average children on tests of intelligence and adaptive behavior-they were categorized as "recovered" from autism.

Research continues to expand our understanding of effective treatment for autism. A list of the world wide sites currently working to replicate the UCLA "Young Autism Project" research in included in this packet. Research is also documenting that, while EARLY intensive intervention is necessary to the possibility of "recovery;" children and individuals, no matter what their age when treatment is started, can make dramatic improvements in functional skills and abilities with an intensive ABA/UCLA/Model of treatment.

While the up front costs of treatment are significant; the long term cost effectiveness of treatment has been well documented. Educational costs are lowered as fewer children require self-contained classrooms and more can be included in regular classrooms. Long term costs are lowered as fewer parents relinquish custody of their autistic children and fewer autistic individuals require institutionalization. 

Thirty years of research have documented the effectiveness of the ABA/UCLA/Lovass Model of treatment.  Young children treated can lead full and productive lives. Many can attain the capabilities necessary to be "recovered." Almost all children who are not "recovered," still make enormous improvements with this treatment.