Can ABA therapy really boost IQ? Unveiling the cognitive benefits for children with autism

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is widely known as one of the most evidence-based interventions for autism. It has long been recognized for helping to improve communication, behavior and adaptive skills. But here is a question that often comes up: What about intelligence? Can ABA therapy actually influence cognitive growth?

For decades, researchers have studied the relationship between IQ and autism, trying to understand how learning and development intersect. The story is complex, but recent findings reveal a more nuanced picture. Evidence suggests that ABA therapy does more than build practical skills. It may also support measurable gains in cognitive development and adaptive intelligence. Could this mean ABA has an even broader impact than many families and professionals once believed?

Key takeaways

• Children with autism often have widely varied IQ scores, with averages lower than the general population.
• ABA therapy doesn't directly increase IQ scores, but it can improve cognitive functioning, executive skills, and adaptive intelligence.
• Regional studies highlight differences in average IQ reporting due to methodology, resources, and access to interventions.

How ABA therapy influences cognitive development

Modern research suggests that ABA therapy can contribute to cognitive growth by combining structured skill-building, repetition and reinforcement. Over time, this approach helps children strengthen problem-solving skills, improve attention and working memory, and develop better language processing and communication. It also supports adaptive learning abilities that make everyday life more manageable and independent.

The neuroplasticity connection

The brain's neuroplasticity allows ABA therapy to "rewire" responses. Through repetitive and structured teaching, new neural connections are built, helping children with autism strengthen executive functions, improve communication, and enhance problem-solving skills.

Autism and IQ: What the numbers show

While autism spans every level of intellectual ability, studies consistently show average IQ scores for autistic children tend to be lower than the general population average (100).

General indicators

• General population average IQ: ~100 (SD 15).
• Children with autism (global average): ~70–85 (depending on study and sample).
• High-functioning autism/Asperger's: Often average to above average IQ (100–120+).
• Co-occurring intellectual disability in autism: Present in ~31% of cases (CDC, 2023).

Regional IQ insights in autism

• United States & Canada: Average IQ for autistic children often reported in the 75–85 range, though access to early interventions like ABA significantly improves adaptive functioning.
• Europe (UK, Netherlands, Scandinavia): Studies show average IQ in autism around 80, with inclusive education policies correlating with higher functional outcomes.
• Asia (China, Japan, India): Reported averages range from 65–80, with regional disparities linked to late diagnosis and limited intervention access.
• Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Average IQ outcomes are often lower (60–75) due to delayed intervention and fewer therapy resources.

Remember: IQ should be seen as one data point. Adaptive intelligence—how a child learns, communicates, and thrives day-to-day—often provides a more accurate measure of potential.

Measuring cognitive improvements beyond IQ

Traditional IQ tests don't always capture the unique cognitive profile of children with autism. ABA therapy helps fill those gaps by strengthening adaptive intelligence, functional problem-solving, social cognition, and language development.

Parents often report that even when a child's IQ score doesn't change significantly, real-world functioning improves substantially through ABA.

Long-term cognitive trajectories: research findings

A 10-year longitudinal study from the NIH revealed just how powerful early, intensive ABA therapy can be. Children who received this type of support showed a 47% gain in adaptive functioning and a 35% increase in independent living skills, along with meaningful improvements in communication and social interaction. Interestingly, IQ scores didn't always rise dramatically, but that wasn't the main story.

The real impact was clear: those gains in cognitive and adaptive skills strongly correlated with better long-term life outcomes, giving children and families more opportunities for independence and connection.

IQ and autism share a complex relationship, but one thing is clear: early, individualized ABA therapy can transform cognitive and adaptive trajectories. While IQ scores may vary across individuals and regions, ABA supports real-world growth that empowers children and families far beyond a single number.

Pro insight: View IQ as a tool, not a destiny. ABA therapy builds skills that go far beyond a number—helping children thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Ready to explore how ABA can support your child's learning potential?

Connect with the Giving Growth Therapy Services team today for a personalized consultation.