Authors: Tristram Smith Svein Eikeseth
Publish Date: 2010/12/14
Volume: 41, Issue: 3, Pages: 375-378
Abstract
O Ivar Lovaas 1927–2010 devoted nearly half a century to groundbreaking research and practice aimed at improving the lives of children with autism and their families In the 1960s he pioneered applied behavior analytic ABA interventions to decrease severe challenging behaviors and establish communicative language Later he sought to improve outcomes by emphasizing early intervention for preschoolers with autism provided in family homes with active parental participation His studies indicated that many children who received early intensive ABA made dramatic gains in development Lovaas also disseminated ABA widely through intervention manuals educational films and public speaking Moreover as an enthusiastic teacher and devoted mentor he inspired many students and colleagues to enter the field of ABA and autism intervention
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