"Trying to understand the behavior of some people is like trying to smell the color 9"

- Unknown

Behavior. That is what the world of autism field is all about. "Our" kids are challenged with so many behaviors that are not considered "typical". Doctors, teachers, specialists, therapists devote their professional lives to help shape and mold these kids behaviors so they can better manage the challenges of everyday life. For what may seem like a simple situation for most children (and adults) is a complex and confusing landscape for those impacted by autism; and their behavior is oftentimes the root of those issues.

But the topic of behavior today is not focused on those with autism, but rather those that work directly with these very special people; Behaviorists - specifically Applied Behavioral Analysts (ABA). In my eleven years of getting to know autism as a parent I have had the opportunity to meet and get-to-know dozens of ABA therapists. What I find interesting is that they (at least the great Behaviorists - like the ones here at PCAL - shameless plug) possess many similar qualities and characteristics. And while these are virtues in so many ways, I often have find myself a bit perplexed at what makes these folks tick. Shall I say 'oddly magnificent'?

A few examples...

Organization: Wow. Where to begin? Since working alongside these folks I have learned they bring organization to a new level. Everything not only has place, it has a LABEL on that place! Pretty sure I saw a label that read 'Toilet Paper'.
Patience: if you know/love/have a child with autism, patience is more than a virtue, it is a 'job requirement'. Behaviorists seem to be wired with a special patience gene in their DNA.
Work Ethic: Behaviorists are work horses, all of 'em. I often joke to my crew here to 'take it easy', 'slow down', relax'. I don't physically or mentally think these people can do it. I credit it to the 'love of the game' theory, but who knows?. As a parent, its very comforting to know these people throw themselves into their jobs and leave no stone unturned. As a co-worker, they kind of make me sick.
Compulsion/'Perfectionism': See number 1....and add steroids
Social 'Indifference': Don't get offended, gang, but sometimes, you can be slightly awkw...in certain situat....nevermind, you are all the Bells of the Ball. Forget I said anything.
Passion: Behaviorists (like teachers) not only love what they do, they love the kids they treat. I oftentimes feel like they understand my child better than Mom and me. Passion is a big reason why. Behaviorists are all in.

At the end of the (very long) day, there is no one better to manage the education, treatment and advancement of children with autism than Behaviorists. They spend years of schooling, training, shadowing and learning how to do so. ABA is the best avenue (at least for now) to help our kids develop into the best people they can be.

Thanks for all you do...now go back and correct my grammar...and clean that keyboard (again)....while you organize those files by color/manufacturer/size/weight/country of origin.

Oh Behave...

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