Imagine being forced into a life of constant monitoring, manipulation, and control. This is the reality for many autistic individuals who have been subjected to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Positive Behavioral Support (PBS) therapies. These approaches may seem harmless at first glance, but they can be extremely harmful and many aspects of both meet Geneva Convention criteria for torture(1).
In this article, we’ll delve into the dark truth behind ABA and PBS, exploring how these therapies can cause physical and emotional trauma, leading to a degradation of overall health.
ABA: Torture by Design?
ABA is often marketed as a “scientific” approach to helping autistic individuals communicate and behave. However, when you examine its methods more closely, you’ll find that many of them are not supported by empirical evidence and can be harmful.
- Physical coercion: ABA practitioners may use physical restraint or force to manipulate an individual’s behavior.
- Threat: Autistic people are often threatened with loss of privileges or social isolation if they don’t comply with treatment goals.
- Violence: Some ABA therapists have been known to use averse stimuli, such as loud noises, unpleasant smells, and physical shocks to modify behavior.
These tactics create a toxic environment that can have long-term, devastating effects on an individual’s physical and mental health. Autistic people deserve better than to be subjected to such treatment.
PBS: Enforcing Masking and Trauma
PBS is often touted as a more “positive” approach to supporting autistic individuals. However, when you examine its methods more closely, you’ll find that it can also cause harm. PBS:
- Enforces masking: Autistic people are forced to hide their natural behaviors and traits to conform to societal norms.
- Causes trauma: The constant pressure to mask can lead to anxiety, depression, and a sense of self-annihilation.
- Increases allostatic load due to masking and suppression of normal, autistic traits and behaviors.
Conclusion:
It’s time for us to recognize the harm that ABA and PBS therapies can cause. These approaches are not only ineffective but also harmful and traumatic. As we move forward, it’s essential that we prioritize acceptance, understanding, and support for autistic individuals. Let’s work together to create a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive without fear of being subjected to torture or trauma.
Call to Action:
If you’re an autistic individual who has experienced harm from ABA or PBS, know that your voice matters. Share your story with others and join the growing movement for acceptance and support. Together, we can create a brighter future for all autistic people.
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(1) – The Geneva Convention lists the following as criteria of torture:
- Physical coercion, threat, or violence
- Isolation
- Deprivation of sleep or food
- Manipulation of fear & anxiety
- Psychological (mental) coercion
- Emotional manipulation
- Psychological exploitation