The Efficacy of an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Based Video Modeling Program in Mitigating Oppositional Behaviors Related to Life Skills Among Saudi Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

The study aimed to examine the effect of video modeling (VM) intervention program grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) on reducing oppositional behaviors related to life skills for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. A single-subject MBL design was used across three participants. All participants received a diagnosis of ASD Level 2 and demonstrated severe oppositional behaviors in culturally sensitive activities of daily living such as morning routine, pre-prayer hygiene ADLs, and academic transitions. The treatment involved culturally adapted video modeling with least-to-most prompting, reinforcement techniques congruent with Islamic beliefs, and systematic data collection during the course of 50 sessions. Statistically significant reductions in oppositional behavior were obtained for all three children, ranging from 31.6% to 69.4%). Effect sizes were large (Cohen's d = 3.33-7.63), representing clinically meaningful alterations. Maintenance data at 8-week follow-up demonstrated sustained gains for all participants. ABA-based video modeling is an evidence-based culturally appropriate intervention in reducing oppositional behaviors and promoting life skills learning among Saudi children with ASD. The results underscore the value of infusing behavioral interventions with cultural and religious content.