More Than Meets the Eye

I am very interested in how language evolves and changes, and that includes how words sometimes get co-opted and altered through various means. For example "literally" meaning "figuratively" or "iconic" just meaning "memorable". Something similar has happened to the word "behavior" which has become regrettably oversimplified and, more disconcertingly, vilified. This reductionist view strips away the rich complexity of human actions, relegating them to mere 'willfully negative acts'.

I propose it's time we reclaim 'behavior' from this narrow perspective and appreciate its multifaceted nature. 

“THERE IS A TIME to admire the grace and persuasive power of an influential idea, and there is a time to fear its hold over us. The time to worry is when the idea is so widely shared that we no longer even notice it, when it is so deeply rooted that it feels to us like plain common sense. At the point when objections are not answered anymore because they are no longer even raised, we are not in control: we do not have the idea; it has us.” Kohn, Alfie. Punished By Rewards: Twenty-Fifth Anniversary Edition (p. 3). HarperCollins. Kindle Edition.

Behavior is not simply 'something a person does'; it is a window into the human experience. Every action, every reaction, is woven from myriad threads of our inner world. When we dismiss behavior as merely problematic, we overlook the profound stories it can tell and do a disservice to the people and places we want to help.

A Dynamic Systems Approach

Imagine behaviour as an archipelago of islands, each island representing a distinct action or reaction we observe. On the surface, these islands appear separate and isolated, much like individual behaviors. However, beneath the water, these islands are interconnected by vast, intricate networks of underwater landforms. This hidden connectivity represents the complex web of underlying factors—emotions, past experiences, physiological states, and environmental influences—that shape and drive behaviour. A dynamic systems approach to viewing behaviors recognises this interconnectedness, understanding that what we see on the surface is just a small part of a larger, integrated whole. By exploring these underwater connections, we can gain a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of the true nature of behavior, leading to more empathetic and effective interventions.

Unintentional Acts and Signals of Distress

Often, behaviors are not premeditated but rather spontaneous responses to our internal state. A child fidgeting in class might not be 'naughty' but rather experiencing sensory overload. An adult snapping at a colleague might not be being 'high maintenance' but rather signalling underlying stress or anxiety. By recognising these behaviors as unintentional, we can approach them with empathy rather than judgement.

Indicators of Nervous System Imbalance and Trauma

Behaviors can be powerful indicators of nervous system imbalance or past trauma. When someone withdraws socially, it might be a coping mechanism for overwhelming anxiety. When another person becomes hyperactive, it might be their nervous system's way of seeking equilibrium. Understanding these behaviours as manifestations of deeper physiological or psychological states can guide us towards more supportive interventions.

Sometimes Behavior is Communication

Behavior can also be a form of communication. For those who struggle with verbal expression—whether due to age, neurodivergence, physical disability, or other factors—behavior might be a primary language. A tantrum might be a plea for help, a way of saying, "I am overwhelmed." Recognising this, we can respond not with reprimand, but with compassion and curiosity: "What are you trying to tell us?" 

Influence of Caregivers, Educators, and Health Professionals

Our understanding of behavior is profoundly shaped by the messages we receive from those around us. If a child is constantly told they are 'naughty', they internalize this label, viewing themselves as inherently problematic. This self-perception can persist into adulthood, affecting self-esteem and behaviour. Conversely, when caregivers, educators, and health professionals adopt a more nuanced view of behavior, they can foster a more positive self-concept in those they support. How liberating for a child to hear "I don't think you meant to do that" or "Your body reacting before your brain could step in!"

Liberating Behavior from Negative Connotations

To truly reclaim the phenomena of behavior, we must liberate it from its negative connotations. This involves shifting our perspective from one of blame to one of understanding. It requires us to ask not "What's wrong with them?" but "What happened to them?" or "What are they trying to communicate?"

A Call to Action

As occupational therapists with advanced training in Ayres Sensory Integration and a commitment to neurodiversity affirming care, we are uniquely positioned to lead this paradigm shift. By embracing a holistic view of behavior, we can better support those we work with, fostering environments where they feel understood, valued, and capable.