https://www.a1autismconsultants.com/ How ABA Therapy Helps Manage Challenging Behaviors: A Parent-Friendly Guide When a child has frequent meltdowns, aggression, self-injury, or intense frustration, it can feel heartbreaking and exhausting for parents. Many caregivers worry they’re doing something wrong — or fear their child is being “defiant” on purpose. The truth is, challenging behaviors are a form of communication , especially for children with autism. ABA therapy helps uncover why behaviors happen and teaches safer, more effective ways for children to express their needs. This guide explains how ABA approaches challenging behaviors with compassion, structure, and long-term solutions — not punishment. What Are “Challenging Behaviors”? In ABA, challenging behaviors are behaviors that interfere with learning, safety, or daily functioning. These may include: Tantrums or meltdowns Aggression (hitting, kicking, biting) Self-injury (head banging, scratching) Pro...