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What is Assent-Based Therapy, and Why is It So Important in ABA?


A kid giving an adult a fist bump.

At Pathways to Potential, we are passionate about fostering a compassionate and collaborative environment where every child feels empowered in their therapeutic journey. One key element of this approach is assent-based therapy, a practice that respects the rights and opinions of our clients, ensuring that they have a voice in their treatment. We are thrilled to share with you what assent means and why it is crucial in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

 

Understanding Assent

 

In a therapeutic context, assent refers to the agreement or approval of an individual who may not be legally able to provide full consent—typically children or individuals with certain developmental disabilities. Importantly, assent goes beyond mere compliance; it is about actively involving our clients in the decision-making process regarding their therapy. We want each child to feel that they are part of their own journey, and their preferences matter!

 

Why is Assent Important?

 

Obtaining assent is vital for several reasons. Firstly, it fosters a sense of autonomy and self-determination, which contributes positively to a child’s self-esteem and motivation. When children feel that their voices are heard and valued, they are more likely to engage actively in their therapy. Secondly, assent-based therapy helps us establish a trusting and respectful relationship between the therapist and the child, which is essential for effective learning and behavior change.

 

Historically, many therapeutic models emphasized a one-size-fits-all approach, leaving little room for individual feedback. By contrast, assent-based therapy recognizes the uniqueness of each child and tailors interventions to suit their interests and preferences. When children understand and feel ownership over their therapy, the outcomes are often significantly enhanced.

 

Obtaining and Respecting Assent

 

Obtaining assent is a process that involves clear communication. For example, when we begin a new intervention or activity, we might say to a child, “We’re going to try a fun game that helps you learn how to share. How does that sound to you?” This phrasing allows the child to express their feelings about participating and gives them a sense of control. Even if the child is hesitant, we can explore their concerns together, fostering open dialogue.

 

An inspiring case at Pathways to Potential involved a young girl we will call Ava, who initially struggled with participating in certain activities. During our first session with her, we explained the purpose of the exercises in child-friendly language, allowing her to choose between a few different activities. For example, we would ask “Do you want to learn letters or match animals?” As a result, Ava felt like she had more control, and she enthusiastically embraced the activities she selected—our teamwork transformed her engagement!

 

However, there are times when a child may wish to withdraw their assent. It’s crucial to honor that decision. If a child expresses discomfort or disinterest, such as saying, “No”, or “All done”,  we respect their feelings immediately. We might suggest taking a break or trying something different, reinforcing that it’s okay to change their minds. This approach enhances trust and encourages them to communicate openly in the future.

 

The Journey Forward

 

Incorporating assent-based therapy is not merely a technique; it’s an ethos. It’s about creating a space where children feel seen, heard, and valued. As we continue to navigate the intricacies of their developmental journeys, we are reminded that at the heart of our work is the deep commitment to respect their individuality and preferences.

 

If you are a parent who may be unfamiliar or uncertain about how to engage your child in this way, rest assured that we at Pathways to Potential are here to support you! Empowering your child through assent-based therapy can be transformative, making it a collaborative and enriching experience.

 

Together, let’s open the door to a brighter, more inclusive future where every child can thrive through their own unique journey! Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions or wish to learn more about how we can support you and your family.

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