ABA services to augment communication in an individual with complex needs: a case study

Purpose An overarching goal of applied behaviour analysis (ABA) services is to facilitate communication in neurodivergent individuals and promote ways for them to make choices and exercise autonomy across contexts. While there is a wealth of scientific literature supporting the use of ABA services to encourage communication, much of this research is focused on younger children, those who are vocal, or are in the United States. Design/methodology/approach In this study, the authors report on an adolescent with cerebral palsy, learning disability and brain injury. specifically, this paper aims to test the impact of a shaping procedure to teach choice-making using a head-switch. Findings Our teaching procedures were effective in that we observed increases in choice-making behaviour in our participant. Originality/value They discuss the application of programmes that directly target the quality-of-life of individuals with complex needs.