What Do the Terms Negative and Positive Mean in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA)?
Terms “Positive” & “Negative” in Applied Behavioral Analysis When we use consequence to increase (a reward) or decrease (a punishment) a behavior, we almost always add the term negative or the term positive: for example, a positive reward. What do these terms, “positive” and “negative” mean in ABA? Positive: When we use a positive reward or […]
How to Use Rewards to Change Behavior: Tips for Parents and Teachers of Children with Autism
What is a Reward? Rewards, as a concept in ABA, is anything that increases the chance of behavior to occur again. Sometimes we call this a reinforcement. Many ABA approaches define rewards into four categories. Attention When we look at children, say something just to them or go to them and touch their shoulder, we […]
Webinar Recording: Therapists Confess: Ten Parenting Tips We Actually Use
Therapists Confess: Ten Parenting Tips We Actually Use As behavior therapists, we have a library full of books and research articles that tout parenting best practices. We’ve coached live time-outs, given lectures on ways to effectively parent anxious and depressed teens, and supported our individual clients on the emotional roller coaster that is parenthood. But […]
Understanding and Treating Panic Disorder in Teens and Young Adults
Imagine a wave of fear crashing over you out of nowhere. Your heart races, your body trembles, and your breaths grow short. It feels as if you’re losing control or, even worse, that something terrible is about to happen. This intense experience is what a panic attack can feel like. For some teens and young […]
Understanding Agoraphobia in Teens and Young Adults: A Path to Freedom from Fear
Imagine a world where everyday places—like the school cafeteria, a shopping mall, or even a crowded concert—feel like an overwhelming maze of anxiety. For those with agoraphobia, the fear of certain places or situations can feel like a constant barrier, making it hard to enjoy life’s simple moments. Agoraphobia isn’t just about fearing crowded places […]
Navigating Specific Phobias in Teens and Young Adults: Understanding and Overcoming Intense Fears
Specific phobias are more than just fleeting fears—they’re intense, often overwhelming anxieties tied to specific objects or situations. For teens and young adults, these phobias can create invisible barriers, limiting experiences and daily activities. Imagine having a paralyzing fear of elevators, thunderstorms, or even going to the doctor. For those with specific phobias, these seemingly […]
Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Teens and Young Adults
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a challenging mental health condition that can make daily life overwhelming for teens and young adults. Imagine a constant, nagging worry that something terrible might happen. It’s like having a distressing thought stuck in your mind, making you feel anxious and uneasy. For someone with OCD, these obsessive thoughts don’t just […]
Understanding and Managing Performance Anxiety in Teens and Young Adults
Performance anxiety, sometimes called “stage fright” or “test anxiety,” is a form of anxiety that arises when individuals face situations where they must perform or meet specific expectations. This anxiety can occur in academic, social, or recreational settings—whether it’s taking a test, playing in a sports match, or speaking on stage. For teens and young […]
Understanding and Overcoming Social Anxiety in Teens and Young Adults
Social anxiety disorder, commonly known as social phobia, extends beyond mere shyness or occasional nervousness. It manifests as an intense, persistent fear of social situations, leading individuals to avoid interactions that are integral to personal and professional growth. This condition affects approximately 5% of the population, with a higher prevalence among women, particularly during adolescence […]
Understanding and Managing Separation Anxiety in Teens
Separation anxiety, often associated with young children, can also significantly impact adolescents. When the fear of being apart from loved ones persists beyond early childhood, it may indicate Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD), a condition that disrupts daily life and emotional well-being. Recognizing Separation Anxiety Disorder in Adolescents In teenagers, SAD may manifest through: These behaviors […]
Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Teens and Young Adults
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of daily life. Unlike typical anxiety that arises in response to specific situations, GAD involves ongoing apprehension that can interfere with daily activities and overall well-being. Recognizing the Symptoms of GAD Individuals with GAD may experience: […]
Navigating Life Transitions: Managing Stress in Teens and Young Adults
Life is a series of transitions, each bringing its own set of challenges and stressors. For teens and young adults, these changes can be particularly overwhelming, leading to increased anxiety and stress. Understanding everyday stressors and developing effective coping strategies are essential to maintaining mental well-being during these pivotal years. Common Stressors for Teens Teenagers […]
Understanding Depression in Teens and Young Adults: Recognizing the Signs and Finding Help
Depression affects millions of teens and young adults, often in ways that may go unnoticed at first. What might feel like “just a rough patch” or “normal ups and downs” can sometimes be an indication of depression—an ongoing mental health condition that can affect every aspect of life. Learning to recognize the subtle signs of […]
Supporting a Sibling or Friend with Anxiety: A Guide for Teens and Young Adults
When someone close to you—like a sibling or friend—is dealing with anxiety, it can be challenging to know how to help. Your support plays a crucial role in their journey toward managing their anxiety. Here are some practical steps you can take to be there for them: 1. Be Present Simply being there can make […]
Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Teens and Young Adults
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry about various aspects of daily life. Unlike typical anxiety that arises in response to specific situations, GAD involves ongoing apprehension that can interfere with daily activities and overall well-being. Recognizing the Symptoms of GAD Individuals with GAD may experience: These […]