In applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, as in life, it’s tempting to lean on assumptions. They give us shortcuts. They help us feel certain. They save us from sitting in the uncomfortable space of the unknown. But when it comes to supporting children with autism, collaborating with families, and mentoring staff, assumptions can quietly erode trust and block the path to meaningful growth.
At kin:pathic, we believe the opposite of assumption is curiosity—the curiosity to understand the why behind behaviors, decisions, and needs. And it’s this curiosity that allows ABA therapists and behavior analysts to build compassion, clarity, and more effective support for the people we serve.
The Trap of Assumptions
Our brains are wired to fill in gaps. In everyday life, that can be helpful. But in behavioral health services, assumptions can create misunderstandings, harm relationships, and even slow a child’s progress. They might sound like:
“This staff member knows what I meant.”
“This parent must not care because they’ve missed a few sessions.”
“This child isn’t capable of that skill.”
Each of these skips the most important step: pausing to ask and seeking to understand. That small shift is at the heart of effective, compassionate ABA practice.
Why Great Leaders Resist Assumptions
Strong leadership in ABA isn’t about having all the answers, it’s about asking the right questions. Clinical directors, BCBAs, and behavior therapists who resist assumptions:
Build Trust
Working together in a collaborative mentoring environment shows respect for others’ perspectives.
Empower Teams
When staff know they won’t be judged and trained with respect makes them feel safe to share challenges.
Model Curiosity
A culture of inquiry encourages innovation, critical thinking, planning and problem-solving.
Prevent Errors
Clear communication reduces misunderstandings that could affect safety or compliance.
Resisting assumptions, setting clear expectations, and prioritizing transparent communication is a discipline of humility. It’s a mindful choice to pause, ask, explain, and listen before acting. Studies have shown that when leaders foster collaboration and clear communication across interdisciplinary autism teams, outcomes improve for both clients and staff.
Applying This Skill in ABA Services
In ABA, assumptions have real consequences for children, families, and staff. Staying curious and asking questions keeps care centered on dignity, learning, and growth. Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- With Families. Instead of assuming a parent’s absence means disinterest, we can ask about barriers; transportation, work schedules, or stressors at home. That opens doors to problem-solving rather than judgment.
- With Staff. Rather than assuming data errors reflect carelessness, leaders can explore whether training, workload, or unclear expectations are the issue. This shifts the focus from blame to support.
- With Clients. Assuming a child “can’t” do something risks limiting their opportunities. Staying curious means uncovering strengths, motivations, and new ways to scaffold success.
This individualized, strengths-based approach is supported by research showing that personalized treatment plans for autism spectrum disorder lead to more meaningful progress.
The Autism Lens: Respecting Individuality
For individuals with autism, assumptions can be especially harmful. Every person’s communication, sensory profile, and learning style is unique. Assuming that “all individuals with autism” respond the same way undermines the foundational principle of individualized ABA therapy.
A recent 2025 study at University of Southern California echoes this point, cautioning against one-size-fits-all approaches in ABA and urging clinicians to respect individual voices and preferences
Leaders and clinicians who resist assumptions instead:
- Honor each person’s voice and preferences.
- Design programs that reflect real needs, not stereotypes.
- Foster dignity by asking, not presuming, what matters most to the individual and their family.
A Call to Leaders
Real leadership requires the courage to slow down and replace assumptions with inquiry. The most effective ABA therapists and clinical leaders aren’t the ones who “know it all.” They’re the ones who want to learn more and willing to say:
“Help me understand.”
“What does this mean for you?”
“What support would make this easier?”
By practicing this discipline, we not only become better leaders and clinicians, but we also create environments where staff, families, and children feel seen, respected, and empowered.
At its heart, letting go of assumptions is not just about better therapy. It’s about building a more compassionate and inclusive community; one conversation, one question, and one moment of curiosity at a time.
References:
Bowman, K., Suarez, V., & Weiss, M. Standards for Interprofessional Collaboration in the Treatment of Individuals With Autism
Frye, R., Rose, S., Boles, R. & Rossignol, D. A Personalized Approach to Evaluating and Treating Autism Spectrum Disorder
Mathur, S., Renz, E., & Tarbox, J. Affirming Neurodiversity within Applied Behavior Analysis