APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (ABA) STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING CHALLENGING BEHAVIORS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN THE SCHOOL CONTEXT

Abstract

Interventions based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) have established themselves as scientifically grounded strategies for managing challenging behaviors exhibited by children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the school setting. This study aimed to analyze key ABA strategies used in schools to manage such behaviors through an integrative literature review. The review covered publications from 2014 to 2024 and was conducted between February and April 2026 using the SciELO and Google Scholar databases. Scientific articles in Portuguese and English were included, provided they were available in full text and directly related to the topic. The results indicate that strategies such as positive reinforcement, teaching alternative behaviors, environmental structuring, and functional behavior assessment yield consistent results in reducing disruptive behaviors and promoting adaptive skills. It is concluded that ABA serves as a significant framework for inclusive educational practices, particularly when its strategies are aligned with the characteristics of the school environment and the individual needs of students with ASD.