Autism Awareness- What it Should Entail

This summer I organized an Autism Resource Fair and Fun Day. Like many areas of the U.S., Autism Awareness and resources are few, however it is amazing how much support and help came together for this event.

So how does ABA fit into this?

ABA first and foremost helps individuals improve socially significant behaviors to a meaningful degree.

So what are "socially significant" behaviors?

Like the word "normal", this may have different definitions to different people. Let me explain. When targeting behaviors, we must ask if it will really help the individual, and question who exactly it will benefit. A behavior change should not just be a culturally desirable concern.
When a Behavior Analyst looks at behaviors that are concerning, we have to look at changing these behaviors by developing and teaching a functionally equivalent behavior and helping the individual engage in such a way that will benefit him/her in a functional way.
For example, I am much more worried about an individual who is aggressive toward self and others than I am about flapping hands. In fact, according to the ethical codes from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB), a Behavior Analyst must take into consideration the rights of the individual before changing behaviors, in this case Autistic traits, that are not harmful. This is why Autism Awareness and acceptance is so important.