Studying ABA: looking for others thoughts and experiences.
I have a lot of issues with how ABA has been done in the past. My father utilized similiar behavior science based methods to abuse and traumatize me growing up so I deeply understand how and why it can be so harmful. However, I have found some clinics that use ABA in an assent (consent) focused way to help teach skills and improve functional communication without overworking the kids and forcing them to mask. I know the code of ethics was not introduced until 2022 and therefore many of us who are adults now that have been treated were not treated in a helpful way.
I guess my question is, what are some of your thoughts on ABA and how it has advanced over the years? Do we disregard an entire field because it was traumatizing and used incorrectly, like so many other scientific and medical fields? Do we learn from the mistakes and try to utilize what we’ve learned in ways that do not cause harm? How does our community feel and what are your personal experiences?