A randomised trial to compare the effectiveness of applied behavioural analysis (ABA) and verbal behavioural approach (VBA) in the management of autism spectrum disorder

Study method:

i-                    take informed, written consent

ii-                   assessment with INCLEN-ASD and ISAA done for diagnosing autism spectrum disorder

iii-                 intelligence quotient score will be measured using Seguin Form Board test

iv-                 applying criteria for inclusion and exclusion, the subjects will be included in the study

Randomly allot study participants to two groups, ‘A’ and ‘V’ by chit system where group A is to receive ABA and group V is to receive VBA

ii-                   Baseline function deficit in domain of social communication and interaction of child will be measured by Vineland Social Maturity Scale (VSMS), Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS), Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC).

iii-                 The participants in the ABA group will receive one-on-one sessions with a Clinical psychologist and Psychiatrist. The sessions will focus on teaching adaptive skills and reducing maladaptive behaviors through positive reinforcement and shaping. The participants in the VBA group will receive one-on-one sessions with a Clinical psychologist and Psychiatrist. The sessions will focus on teaching verbal skills and increasing functional communication through positive reinforcement and shaping . Both groups will receive treatment for 6 months.

iv-                 Continue follow-up for a period of 06 months followed by assessment to measure change in autism severity by ISAA, changes in adaptive skills by Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale (VABS), changes in social maturity by VSMS (Vineland social maturity scale) and changes in maladaptive behaviors, as measured by the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC).