Our Approach
Legal consent for treatment is provided by a child’s parent or guardian. Side by Side ABA Therapy additionally seeks the child’s assent, defined as ongoing behavioral indication of willingness to participate. Indicators of assent may include approaching materials, sustained engagement, and positive affect; indicators of assent withdrawal may include turning away, leaving the area, pushing materials away, or signs of distress.
Clinicians identify and document each child’s individual assent and withdrawal indicators. When assent is withdrawn, clinicians pause, evaluate the variables contributing to the response, and modify the instructional arrangement. Children are also taught functional and socially appropriate ways to request breaks or decline activities. Situations involving imminent risk to safety are managed according to established safety protocols.
Assent-based practice supports the child’s dignity and self-advocacy, strengthens the therapeutic relationship, and promotes sustained engagement in treatment.
Professional Standards and Evidence
- The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts defines assent as vocal or nonvocal verbal behavior that can be taken to indicate willingness to participate, and requires behavior analysts to obtain assent from clients when applicable (Standard 2.11).
- Breaux and Smith (2023) examined the ethical basis for assent-based practice in ABA and positive behaviour support, noted the limited research literature on the topic, and proposed practical procedures for implementation.
- Rajaraman et al. (2022) emphasized client choice and control as core components of trauma-informed behavior-analytic care.
- The Association for Science in Autism Treatment recommends that providers operationally define assent and assent withdrawal for each learner, monitor these indicators across settings, and teach self-advocacy skills directly.
References
- Behavior Analyst Certification Board. (2020). Ethics Code for Behavior Analysts. www.bacb.com/ethics-information/ethics-codes/
- Breaux, C. A., & Smith, K. (2023). Assent in applied behaviour analysis and positive behaviour support: Ethical considerations and practical recommendations. International Journal of Developmental Disabilities, 69(1), 111–121. doi.org/10.1080/20473869.2022.2144969
- Rajaraman, A., et al. (2022). Toward trauma-informed applications of behavior analysis. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 55(1), 40–61. doi.org/10.1002/jaba.881
- Association for Science in Autism Treatment. What is assent in ABA intervention? asatonline.org/research-treatment/clinical-corner/what-is-assent-in-aba-intervention/
This information is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical or clinical advice. Each child’s treatment plan is developed by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst following an individualized assessment. For questions, contact info@sidebysideabatherapy.com.