Analysis of Adaptive Behavior in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Cases at the Espérance Association of Akbou, Bejaïa

Abstract

This study examines adaptive behavior in four children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), aged 6 to 10 years, receiving follow-up care at the Espérance Association of Akbou (Béjaïa, Algeria). It assesses the impact of individualized interventions, particularly ABA and TEACCH programs, on their autonomy, communication, and socialization skills.
Autism, defined as a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors, often hinders adaptive behavior, including sensorimotor abilities, daily living skills, and reasoning. The general hypothesis posits that care provided within the association promotes the children’s development, while the partial hypotheses focus on improving autonomy and communication and reducing maladaptive behaviors.
The study adopts a clinical case-study method using semi-structured interviews with parents and the Quebec Adaptive Behavior Scale (QABS), completed by close caregivers. The QABS assesses adaptive domains (score range: 0–450, from profound to mild impairment) and maladaptive domains (score range: 0–297, from profound to mild impairment). The investigation was conducted in 2025.
The findings indicate that multidisciplinary care involving psychologists, speech therapists, and educators significantly improves adaptive behavior, thereby confirming the general hypothesis. Early intervention and family involvement are essential to promoting autonomy and social inclusion among children with ASD.