As I mentioned in my previous post, I have developed a special interest in human behaviour.

I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, which led me to nursing. As a nurse, I didn’t find the technical tasks particularly interesting. I was perfectly capable of following instructions, but what interests me most is supporting and guiding people.

There are so many different conditions that can cause changes in someone’s behaviour. There is dementia, brain injury, psychiatric conditions and intellectual disabilities. I find it particularly interesting to figure out why someone reacts the way they do. What is behind their behaviour? What are they trying to tell me?

I currently work with young people with severe intellectual disabilities and behavioural difficulties. This is the group I feel most connected to. When it comes to behavioural difficulties, the focus is often mainly on aggression. But to me, aggression is simply a form of expression. They are trying to communicate something through it.

I also find them easy to understand. When they are happy, they laugh. When they are angry, they may hit, and when they are sad, they cry. Most of the young people I work with are unable to speak, or have very limited speech. But their non-verbal communication is very clear.

Because of my autism, I have learned a lot about non-verbal communication, as understanding it did not come naturally to me. Because I pay close attention to detail, I have become quite good at reading non-verbal communication. I think that is one of the reasons why I am good at the work I do. I can read them well, I am patient, and I understand the challenges they face.

What are your talents? And are you able to use them in your work?

I’d love to hear from you!

Until next time,

Love,
Marissa