Is Theraplay a kind of behavior modification?
Theraplay does attempt to change behavior, but in a more social way than many behavior analysis programs. Theraplay goals include: increasing eye contact, increasing attending and turn-taking, adjusting to transitions, finding ways to soothe and comfort the child, determining the optimal level of arousal to promote engagement, and stimulating communication. A behavioral specialist who worked with several children after they attended Theraplay sessions commented that these children were more ready to work with her than children who had not attended Theraplay. My child attends many different therapies, how does Theraplay differ from them? Children with ASD usually receive various kinds of special assistance including speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, sensory integration treatment, tailored educational services, and behavior modification programs. These programs have their own important goals, but may not focus as directly as Theraplay on social interaction. The skills that T
