Therapist Therapists In Increasing The Social Interaction Of Autistic Children (case Studies At The Extraordinary School Of Autism Medan)

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Increases the Social Interaction of Children with Autism: The Important Role of Therapeutic Communication

Abstract

Autistic children often experience difficulties in social interaction, which can lead to difficulties in establishing relationships with others and participating in social activities. This study aims to analyze how therapeutic communication therapists can help increase the social interaction of autistic children. The study uses a case study method with a qualitative approach, involving 3 therapists in SLB Negeri Autistic Medan, 2 parents of autistic children, and a psychologist. The results show that the application of therapeutic communication with the ABA method and through the four stages mentioned was very effective in increasing the social interaction and communication of autistic children in the school environment.

Introduction

Autistic children often experience difficulties in social interaction, which can lead to difficulties in establishing relationships with others and participating in social activities. This can be due to various factors, including difficulties in understanding body language, facial expressions, and tone of other people's voice. As a result, autistic children may have difficulty in developing social skills and participating in social activities.

Research has shown that therapeutic communication can play an important role in increasing the social interaction of autistic children. Therapeutic communication involves the use of various techniques and strategies to help children develop social skills and improve their communication. This study aims to analyze how therapeutic communication therapists can help increase the social interaction of autistic children.

A Case Study at the Extraordinary School of Autism Medan

This study was conducted at the Extraordinary School of Autism Medan, which provides education and therapy services to children with autism. The study involved 3 therapists in SLB Negeri Autistic Medan, 2 parents of autistic children, and a psychologist. The study used a case study method with a qualitative approach, which involved collecting data through interviews, observations, and document analysis.

The ABA Method and Important Stages

The study found that the therapist in SLB Autism Medan uses the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) behavior therapy method to increase the social interaction of autistic children. The ABA method focuses on strengthening positive behavior and reducing negative behavior. There are four stages in the process of applying therapeutic communication:

  1. Assessment: Therapist conducts an initial assessment to understand the needs and severity of children's autism.
  2. Observation: Therapist observes children in various situations and conditions to understand their behavior.
  3. Classical Class: Children attend classes with their peers to practice their social skills.
  4. Therapy: Therapist provides individualized therapy to children to help them develop social skills.

Supporting and Inhibiting Factors

The results also showed several factors that could support or inhibit the application of therapeutic communication. Supporting factors include:

Reception and Role of Parents: Parents who support and are actively involved in the therapeutic process can help children in learning and developing. Therapy Methods and Therapeutic Media: The use of appropriate therapeutic methods and media can increase the effectiveness of therapy. Therapist Ability: Therapists who are trained and have expertise in therapeutic communication can provide optimal therapy.

Inhibiting factors include:

The Severity of Autism: Children with high levels of autism severity may take longer to learn social skills. Food Diet: Unhealthy diet can affect children's development and their ability to learn.

Conclusions and Recommendations

This study concluded that the application of therapeutic communication with the ABA method and through the four stages mentioned was very effective in increasing the social interaction and communication of autistic children in the school environment. It is essential to know that this process requires good patience, consistency, and good cooperation between therapists, parents, and children. In addition, further research needs to be done to understand more deeply about the factors that can affect the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in autistic children.

Implications for Practice

The findings of this study have several implications for practice. Firstly, therapists should use the ABA method and the four stages mentioned to increase the social interaction of autistic children. Secondly, parents should be actively involved in the therapeutic process and provide support to their children. Thirdly, therapists should use appropriate therapeutic methods and media to increase the effectiveness of therapy. Finally, further research should be conducted to understand more deeply about the factors that can affect the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in autistic children.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations. Firstly, the study was conducted in a single school and may not be generalizable to other settings. Secondly, the study involved a small sample size and may not be representative of the larger population. Thirdly, the study used a qualitative approach and may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on understanding more deeply about the factors that can affect the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in autistic children. This can include studying the impact of different therapeutic methods and media on social interaction and communication. Additionally, research should be conducted to understand the role of parents and therapists in the therapeutic process and how they can work together to increase the social interaction of autistic children.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study found that the application of therapeutic communication with the ABA method and through the four stages mentioned was very effective in increasing the social interaction and communication of autistic children in the school environment. The study also identified several factors that can support or inhibit the application of therapeutic communication. The findings of this study have several implications for practice and highlight the importance of further research in this area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Therapeutic Communication for Autistic Children

Q: What is therapeutic communication?

A: Therapeutic communication is a type of communication that involves the use of various techniques and strategies to help children develop social skills and improve their communication. It is a crucial aspect of therapy for autistic children, as it helps them to understand and interact with others more effectively.

Q: What is the ABA method, and how does it relate to therapeutic communication?

A: The ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) method is a type of behavior therapy that focuses on strengthening positive behavior and reducing negative behavior. In the context of therapeutic communication, the ABA method is used to help autistic children develop social skills and improve their communication.

Q: What are the four stages of therapeutic communication?

A: The four stages of therapeutic communication are:

  1. Assessment: Therapist conducts an initial assessment to understand the needs and severity of children's autism.
  2. Observation: Therapist observes children in various situations and conditions to understand their behavior.
  3. Classical Class: Children attend classes with their peers to practice their social skills.
  4. Therapy: Therapist provides individualized therapy to children to help them develop social skills.

Q: What role do parents play in the therapeutic process?

A: Parents play a crucial role in the therapeutic process. They should be actively involved in the therapeutic process and provide support to their children. This can include attending therapy sessions, practicing social skills with their children, and providing a supportive and understanding environment.

Q: What are some common challenges that therapists may face when working with autistic children?

A: Some common challenges that therapists may face when working with autistic children include:

  • Difficulty in establishing a rapport with the child
  • Difficulty in understanding the child's communication style
  • Difficulty in adapting the therapy to the child's needs
  • Difficulty in managing the child's behavior

Q: How can therapists overcome these challenges?

A: Therapists can overcome these challenges by:

  • Developing a good understanding of the child's communication style and needs
  • Using a variety of therapy techniques and strategies
  • Being patient and flexible
  • Working closely with parents and other professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan

Q: What are some common myths about autistic children?

A: Some common myths about autistic children include:

  • Autistic children are not intelligent or capable
  • Autistic children are not social or communicative
  • Autistic children are not capable of learning or developing

Q: What are some common facts about autistic children?

A: Some common facts about autistic children include:

  • Autistic children are individuals with unique strengths and abilities
  • Autistic children are capable of learning and developing with the right support and accommodations
  • Autistic children are social and communicative, but may require additional support and accommodations to interact with others effectively.

Q: What are some resources for parents and caregivers of autistic children?

A: Some resources for parents and caregivers of autistic children include:

  • The Autism Society
  • The Autism Speaks
  • The National Autism Association
  • Local support groups and online communities

Q: What are some resources for therapists working with autistic children?

A: Some resources for therapists working with autistic children include:

  • The Autism Society
  • The Autism Speaks
  • The National Autism Association
  • Professional organizations and conferences for therapists working with autistic children.

Conclusion

Therapeutic communication is a crucial aspect of therapy for autistic children. By understanding the ABA method, the four stages of therapeutic communication, and the role of parents in the therapeutic process, therapists can provide effective support and accommodations to help autistic children develop social skills and improve their communication.