Ole Ivar Lovaas

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Ole Ivar Lovaas is a clinical psychologist considered one of the fathers of Applied Behavior Analysis therapy for autism and the first to scientifically demonstrate that the behavior of autistic children can be modified through teaching.^[1] In his studies in the 1960s he relied principally on positive reinforcements of preferred behavior, but his original technique also included aversives such as striking, shouting "No!" at the child, or giving the children electric shocks.

Born in Norway, his interest in environment and how it affects behavior led him to continue his research at the University of Washington, where he received his Ph.D. Lovaas founded the Lovaas Institute for Early Intervention (LIFE) which provides services for those diagnosed with autism. LIFE has offices located throughout the world. Lovaas is Professor Emeritus of Psychology and teaches at the University of California, Los Angeles.

[edit] See also

• Lovaas technique

[edit] External links

• "Screams, Slaps & Love: A surprising, shocking treatment helps far-gone mental cripples".
• Lovaas Institute for Early Intervention
• An example of one of Lovaas' patients

[edit] References

1. ^ *The U.S. Surgeon General's discussion of childhood behavioral disorders, including autism.