THE COMPLEXITY OF SOCIAL PATTERN ANALYSIS

A CASE STUDY OF AN AUTISTIC ADULT

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31505/rbtcc.v26i1.1981

Keywords:

Applied Behavior Analysis, Behavior Analysis, Autism

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in social interactions and communication and excessive repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. Studies suggest that adult people on the autism spectrum, not diagnosed in childhood, can develop classes of adaptive operants that mask socio-communicative difficulties, a phenomenon called camouflage. Behavior patterns can result in social inclusion and comorbidities, such as anxiety and depression. The objective of this article is to present a clinical case study and conceptual analysis of behaviors observed in the natural environment, related to ASD, using functional analysis, with principles of behavior analysis. A historical and situational analysis makes it possible to intervene in behavior patterns that result in suffering, with therapeutic goals of behavioral changes without negative individual and social impact. Using Behavioral Analytical Therapy, a clinical case of a young autistic woman showed the development of social behavior patterns, with reversal of comorbidities.

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Author Biography

Laércia Abreu Vasconcelos, University of Brasilia

Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the Pontifical Catholic University of Goiás (1985), Master's degree in Psychology from the University of Brasília (1988) and Doctorate in Psychology from the University of Brasília (1999) and Post-doctorate from the Federal University of São Carlos (2017-2018). Associate Professor 3 at the Department of Basic Psychological Processes (PPB), Institute of Psychology (IP), at the University of Brasília (UnB) where she works in undergraduate courses and in the Postgraduate Program in Behavioral Sciences.

Published

2025-01-31

How to Cite

dos Santos Gomes de Matos Costa, M., & Abreu Vasconcelos, L. (2025). THE COMPLEXITY OF SOCIAL PATTERN ANALYSIS: A CASE STUDY OF AN AUTISTIC ADULT. Brazilian Journal of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy, 26(1), e241981. https://doi.org/10.31505/rbtcc.v26i1.1981

Issue

Section

Case study