The Evolving Vocabulary of Behavior: Why New Buzzwords are Necessary for Understanding
Throughout human history, the way in which we understand and address behavior considered 'bad' has undergone significant changes. From attributing such behavior to demonic possession to labeling it as a result of maternal behavior, we have consistently sought to explain and manage these behaviors. Today, scientific and medical communities increasingly attribute such behavior to differences in brain wiring, leading them to develop new buzzwords. This article explores why these new terms are necessary and how they assist in understanding behavior more effectively.
From Demonic Possession to Neurodiversity
Once upon a time, people believed that 'bad behavior' was the result of demonic possession. To combat this 'problem,' they resorted to beating and torturing individuals, hoping to expel the demons. This approach not only failed but also led to further harm. Over time, as scientific understanding advanced, we realized that such behavior isn’t necessarily due to external malevolent forces. Instead, it may stem from an inability to process emotions or meet certain needs.
A similar misconception prevailed in the past regarding what is now known as autism. Decades ago, the ‘refrigerator mother syndrome’ suggested that mothers with an emotionally cold demeanor could cause their child to become autistic. However, even with increased parental affection and love, the child’s behavior remained unchanged. This inquiry into the cause of autism ultimately led to a better understanding of different neurological conditions and the concept of neurodiversity.
The Complexity of the Brain and Behavior
As human brains are incredibly complex, they often malfunction or underperform in various ways, leading to what we perceive as 'bad behavior.' The 'complexity of design' problem highlights the numerous ways a brain can be wired differently, influencing behavior and perception. Our limited understanding of brain function—from how consciousness arises to how sensory inputs are interpreted—doesn’t surprise scientists, as the human brain is one of the most complex entities in biology.
The idea that changes in brain wiring might be responsible for perceived 'bad behavior' is relatively new. Scientists haven’t been investigating these phenomena for more than a few decades. Consequently, it is not surprising that many different wiring configurations and their effects have yet to be fully understood. New discoveries continue to be made, necessitating the development of new terminology to discuss these findings.
Addressing Behavior in Children and Adults
Let's consider children, particularly infants. Infants exhibit behaviors that are not 'bad' but rather natural expressions of their needs and distress. When an infant cries or becomes angry, it is due to a need, not a whim. Adults and children alike should have the wisdom to address these needs. To stop a child from exhibiting distress, it is essential to attend to their needs. If patience and understanding are lacking, the child may struggle to learn appropriate behavior.
Children, and even adults, may lack the wisdom to handle their distress appropriately. As a result, adults must provide comfort and education, teaching children how to navigate and solve feelings in the future. Simply telling a child to "stop acting like a child" can teach them that they cannot rely on parental support for comfort or understanding. Loving and understanding environments, where children are encouraged to express themselves and seek guidance, are crucial for fostering responsible behavior.
Society should also differentiate between various types of 'bad behavior.' For instance, a theft of expensive sunglasses differs from the theft of a bag of groceries intended to feed a family. The latter raises the need for job assistance rather than immediate punitive measures. Understanding the motivations behind actions can help in preventing and reducing crime more effectively than a one-size-fits-all approach.
As we continue to develop a deeper understanding of the complexity of the brain and behavior, the scientific community will undoubtedly invent new buzzwords. However, these terms only become buzzwords when misused or applied out of context. By embracing and correctly using these terms, we can foster a more compassionate and understanding approach to human behavior.