Can you say no in ABA therapy?

Yes, you can say no in ABA therapy, and a good program treats a child’s no as communication. Older ABA programs were criticized for pushing compliance. Many providers now teach children to refuse, ask for a break or say they’re done in a clear way, because those are important life skills.

When a child says no, the therapist looks at why: the task may be too hard, boring or overwhelming. They can make it easier, offer choices, take a break or come back later. Parents can say no too. You help choose the goals and can question any method you’re not comfortable with. Before you start with any provider, ask how they respond when a child refuses.