BENEFITS OF REWARD SYSTEM FOR AUTISTIC CHILDREN
Parents of children with autism face quite a lot of difficulties when it comes to motivating their autistic children. In a study pertaining to rewards system dysfunction for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (Kohls et al., 2013), data supported suggestions that the brain’s rewarding circuit is compromised in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This study further found evidence that general reward dysfunction for autism may contribute to atypical behavior when it comes to individual motivation. As per MRI reports in a study by Supekar (2018) children with autism spectrum disorder have weaker functional connections in the brain’s mesolimbic reward pathway. This scarcity should be considered and counted down to customize a rewards system that feels adequately gratifying to the autistic child. Current research studies have also proven that dopamine, a brain neurotransmitter responsible for factors like rewards, pleasure and motivation is found to be playing a significant role in the treatment of neuro developmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Sensory difficulties, social deficits and the autistic child’s preferences should be taken into consideration by the parent before adapting a reward system. Rewards should be introduced for a specific goal and the parent should not give the reward until the goal is reached by the autistic child. Generally parents tend to incorporate rewards, to motivate their autistic child to learn and adapt with transition in a routine like practicing healthy eating habits.
RIGHT REWARDS LEAD TO RIGHT RESULTS
Giving rewards is a way of parents to rehearse positive reinforcement by centering on good behavior rather than getting stuck on trying to fix the autistic child. The autistic child should be a part of the decision- making process to ensure the reward is appealing enough and motivating. A reward chart for an autistic child could be used to encourage positive behavior with regards to transitioning from a favored activity to a less enticing one. Eg: Through a reward chart explain to the autistic child that after watching his / her favorite T.V show you want him / her to have a relaxing bath before going to bed If an autistic child is old enough to understand this concept then as a parent it becomes easy to explain how a relaxing bath before bedtime will help to calm down the child’s mind ( which is stimulated due to T.V screening ) and make him / her have a sound sleep. If the autistic child achieves a smooth transition reward him / her with a sticker on their reward chart. Many autistic children are highly visual hence a visually appealing chart and stickers may increase the child’s motivation. When the child collects a certain amount of stickers, he / she can claim the reward. The goal of giving rewards should be helping the autistic child to find intrinsic value and motivation. The reward shouldn't be a permanent vision rather the reward should serve as a drive in the starting. And then gradually with parental help and support, the autistic child should be capable to find boost from within for long - term results. If hesitance still persists about a reward system for an autistic child then consult an Occupational Therapist and ask for ideas to motivate the autistic child in an appropriate way. Besides seeking professional help, as a parent make use of rewards chart, chores chart or coin jar for insignificant behavior management to see if it works for your autistic child.