World's Education Journal by CISC

Experience with Applied Behavior Analysis for children with autism in Ghana

John Ahorsu-Walker

Educational Psychology

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5981-4445

Edward Kofi Ntim

University of Minnesota

Moon Young Savana Bak

University of Minnesota

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7568-5356

Enoch Mensah

University of Cape Coast

https://orcid.org/0009-0004-1513-5669

Eric Abodey

Rebecca Akosua Afrah Assie

University of Cape Coast

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4377-6127

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24926/wejc.v1i1.6967

Keywords: Applied Behavior Analysis, Autism, Caregivers, Practioners, Ghana

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Abstract

Prevalence rates for autism have been rising across the globe. The rise in autism diagnoses has also increased the need for evidence-based and effective interventions. Behavioral interventions based on applied behavior analysis (ABA) are an effective, evidence-based intervention for individuals with autism. For maximized benefit, ABA interventions have to be accepted by caregivers of children with autism and implemented by trained practitioners. As such, many studies have investigated caregiver and practitioner perspectives regarding ABA interventions. However, there are very few similar studies conducted in Sub-Saharan African countries, such as Ghana. Given Ghana's unique cultural context, where traditional beliefs often attribute autism to spiritual causes, understanding the perceptions of caregivers and practitioners toward ABA interventions is critical for the implementation of ABA interventions. The current qualitative study interviewed six caregivers and 13 practitioners to understand their perspectives on ABA interventions in Ghana, using a phenomenological approach. Results indicated that both caregivers and practitioners trusted ABA interventions to be effective, but both parties also acknowledged challenges related to the high cost. The findings highlight the need for a support system to alleviate caregiver financial burden, empower practitioners, and address barriers to the widespread dissemination of ABA in Ghana.

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Author Biographies

John Ahorsu-Walker, Educational Psychology

John Ahorsu-Walker is a PhD student in the Special Education/Applied Behavior Analysis program within the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Minnesota. His research interests include culturally responsive language and social communication interventions for autistic individuals, caregiver training, transition, and the intersection of faith and disability.

Edward Kofi Ntim, University of Minnesota

Edward Kofi Ntim is a faculty in the Special Education program in the Department of Education and Psychology at the University of Cape Coast. Dr Ntim’s research focuses on inclusion of individuals with disabilities in regular schools and society.

Moon Young Savana Bak, University of Minnesota

Moon Young Savana Bak is a faculty in the Special Education Program in the Educational Psychology Department at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Bak’s research involves culturally relevant social interventions for autistic individuals, and empowerment and education for caregivers of autistic individuals.

Enoch Mensah, University of Cape Coast

Enoch Mensah is a master’s student in the Clinical Health Psychology program within the Department of Education and Psychology at the University of Cape Coast. His research interests include quality of life, psychosocial assessment and interventions for caregivers of children with autism.

Eric Abodey

Eric Abodey is a PhD candidate in the Department of Education and Psychology at the University of Cape Coast. Eric’s research focuses on sexual and reproductive health of individuals with disabilities, disability studies, health services for persons with disabilities, early childhood special education, social inclusion and integration.

Rebecca Akosua Afrah Assie , University of Cape Coast

Rebecca Akosua Afrah Assie is a faculty in the Special Education program in the Department of Education and Psychology at the University of Cape Coast. Her research focuses on Assistive Technology, visual impairment, and inclusive education.