Applied Behavior Analysis: The Scientific Basis for Addressing Public Health Concerns in France

Behavior-analytic interventions are the basis of what is now considered medically necessary intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorders. International best practice includes early, intensive, behavior-analytic interventions individually tailored to suit each child's needs delivered by highly trained professionals in collaboration with parents and aiming to achieve meaningful inclusion in the natural environment. In France, numerous barriers built in the system, such a strong psychoanalytic tradition in the treatment of autism, block children's and professional's access to evidence-based effective education and prevent individuals with autism and their families from living a fulfilling life while enjoying inclusion in society. In this presentation, an innovative model based on ABA and best international practice will be presented as set in practice in Paris. The pathway to success since its inception in 2004 will be illustrated including details on the recent achievement of prolonged funding by the health regional agency for an additional 15 years. Current situation in France including the ongoing need for University-based education for professional training to support the dissemination of scientific methods for the treatment of autism will be discussed together with the way to move forward.