“Backhand would do the job”
“I will smack my kid for eating a hot wheel, that’s ridiculous”
These comments were made about Brantley regarding his pica and reflect a concerning misconception about disciplining children with autism. Such remarks, suggesting physical punishment, underscore the urgent need for increased Autism Awareness.
Punishment doesn't address the core challenges posed by autism, such as difficulties in communication, sensory sensitivities, and social nuances which are often the cause of their behaviors, at least for Brantley. Instead of punitive measures, interventions like Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, and occupational therapy can offer constructive approaches that enhance skills, foster communication, and provide coping mechanisms tailored to the individual's needs.
Despite my gratitude for the therapies Brantley receives, comments like the ones above make me anxious about his future and the future of the millions dealing with autism. It’s vital for society to shift away from the misconception that punishment can “cure” autism, because that is flat out a lie.
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