Autism is one of the most serious mental illnesses in children. A cure is not yet possible. But there are special therapies that relieve the symptoms and enable those affected to lead a self-determined life.
Social work can thus provide lasting support for autistic people in their development. In which areas can therapy help? And which therapies are particularly promising? Julika Schira presents behavioral and music therapy in her publication.
Her book provides a well-founded overview of the different forms of autism and their symptoms. Building on this, Schira explains the basics and methods of behavioral and music therapy. She weighs the advantages and disadvantages of the two approaches against each other and thus supports those affected in the decision for or against therapy.
From the content:
- Behavioral therapy;
- Intervention;
- Autism Spectrum Disorder;
- Developmental disorder;
- Disturbance of perception;
- Psychiatry
Table of Contents
1 Introduction
2 Autistic disorders
2.1 History of the term "autism" – an overview
2.2 Classification according to ICD-10 and DSM-V
2.3 Forms of autistic disorders and their symptomatology
2.4 Autistic disorders and intelligence
2.5 Root cause research and the development of interventions
3 Behavioral therapy interventions for autistic disorders
3.1 Basics of Behavioral Therapy
3.2 Four selected methods of behavioral therapy
3.3 Interim conclusion
4 Music therapy interventions for autistic disorders
4.1 Basics of Music Therapy
4.2 Four selected principles of music therapy
4.3 Interim conclusion
5 Comparison of behavioral therapy and music therapy
5.1 Similarities
5.2 Differences
6 Discussion and outlook
Objectives & Core Topics
This work explores and compares two distinct intervention methods for the treatment of autistic disorders: behavioral therapy and music therapy. The primary research goal is to analyze the underlying mechanisms, modes of action, and practical application of these therapies in autistic children, while evaluating their similarities, differences, and overall relevance for the field of social work.
- Fundamental concepts and diagnostic classification of autistic disorders.
- Specific behavioral therapy techniques, including the discrete learning format and social learning models.
- Principles of music therapy, such as improvisation and the use of music for emotional expression.
- Comparative analysis of evidence levels, therapeutic approaches, and practical implementation.
- Ethical considerations and the role of social work in supporting autistic individuals.
Excerpt from the Book
3.2.1 Discrete learning format
The norwegian psychologist Ivar Lovaas laid the foundation for the use of behavioral therapy in the context of the treatment of autistic people. He achieved his first successes with the application of behaviorist principles to children with autistic disorders (cf. Döringer and Müller 2014, p. 14). Ivar Lovaas developed the training format of the Discrete Learning Format in connection with the intensive early intervention of autistic children.
The discrete learning format is based on the principle of breaking down units of action into the smallest successive behavioral steps or action sequences, which are first practiced individually. Each learning step and each exercise unit consists of a precise and consistent instruction for the desired behavior by the therapist (the so-called discriminatory stimulus), the reaction of the autistic person and the subsequent consequence. For example, the therapist gives an autistic child the prompt "Take the blue ball". The request is followed by a reaction from the child, which can be either right or wrong, correct or incorrect. Correct behavior is rewarded immediately and continuously by a pre-agreed amplifier, for example by a gummy bear or other positive amplifier.
Here, the technology of the Shapings in which even the smallest approximations to the previously defined target behavior are reinforced. Thus, a step-by-step approximation to the target behavior is possible. This technique is preferably used when a behavior is to be almost completely rebuilt, as is often the case with language development in autistic children. There is a large difference between the target and actual state (cf. Poustka et al. 2008, p. 104). This technique reinforces any behavior that is similar to the target behavior. If the child consistently shows the desired goal behavior again and again, gradually only the defined goal behavior and no actions that resemble the goal behavior are strengthened.
Summary of Chapters
1 Introduction: Provides an overview of the current relevance of autism research and outlines the focus on behavioral and music therapy within the context of social work.
2 Autistic disorders: Discusses the history of the term, diagnostic criteria according to ICD-10 and DSM-V, various forms of autism, intelligence levels, and research into causes.
3 Behavioral therapy interventions for autistic disorders: Details the theoretical basis of operant conditioning and examines four specific behavioral methods and their application.
4 Music therapy interventions for autistic disorders: Explores music therapy as a non-verbal approach, presenting its foundational principles and specific techniques like improvisation.
5 Comparison of behavioral therapy and music therapy: Evaluates the overlaps and fundamental differences between the two therapeutic approaches regarding evidence, approach, and practical implementation.
6 Discussion and outlook: Synthesizes the findings, weighs the ethical and practical aspects of both therapies, and considers the significance for social work professionals.
Keywords
Autism spectrum disorder, Behavioral therapy, Music therapy, Operant conditioning, Discrete learning format, Natural learning format, Social learning, Therapeutic intervention, Neurodevelopmental disorders, Social work, Symptomatology, Evidence-based therapy, Emotional expression, Inclusion, Early childhood autism.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the central focus of this publication?
This work examines and compares behavioral therapy and music therapy as two distinct approaches for treating children with autistic disorders, focusing on their specific methodologies and modes of action.
What are the primary themes covered in the text?
The publication covers the classification and symptomatology of autism, the mechanisms of behaviorist learning theories, the creative and non-verbal principles of music therapy, and the ethical implications of these interventions.
What is the core objective of the research?
The primary goal is to analyze how these therapies function in practice, compare their effectiveness, and discuss their respective roles in enabling autistic children to lead self-determined lives.
Which scientific methods are analyzed in this work?
The author analyzes behavioral therapy methods (such as Discrete Learning, Natural Learning, and Model Learning) and music therapy techniques (including improvisation, mirroring, and rhythmic stimulation).
What does the main body of the text address?
The main body details the specific interventions, their application to core autistic symptoms like impaired communication and repetitive behavior, and a structured comparison of their evidence levels and practical approaches.
Which keywords characterize this work?
Key terms include autism spectrum disorder, behavioral therapy, music therapy, social work, operant conditioning, and therapeutic intervention strategies.
How does behavioral therapy typically approach a patient?
Behavioral therapy is described as adult-centered and structured, utilizing operant conditioning and specific instructions to shape desired behaviors and reduce unwanted ones through positive and negative reinforcement.
What role does music play in the therapy of autistic children?
Music is utilized as a non-verbal medium to establish contact, foster social interaction, facilitate emotional expression, and provide a less threatening environment for learning compared to verbal language.
Why is the comparison between these two therapies significant for social work?
The comparison is significant because social workers often interact with autistic individuals in various settings and need to understand the different therapeutic philosophies to support both the individuals and their families effectively.
Are the therapy methods described easily applicable by parents?
The text suggests that behavioral therapy offers structured techniques that can be partially integrated into home life, whereas music therapy is more specialized and generally requires the expertise of a trained music therapist.
- Citation du texte
- Julika Schira (Auteur), 2019, Behavioral therapy and music therapy for children with autism. Methods and mode of action of the two interventions, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1181613
