Here We Go... My Very First Attempt at Blogging

               

 My name is Meghan Bradley and I am currently studying psychology at Brandman University. This is my very first semester here and I am quite nervous and unsure about everything I am doing at this point. I have definitely had plenty of sleepless nights and anxiety about starting this new chapter in my life but all of the support I have encountered from both staff and fellow students have helped ease my hesitation tremendously. I aspire to help individuals with special needs as a career, particularly in the behavioral analysis aspect. For the past four years I have been working at a non-profit organization working with adults who have moderate-severe developmental disabilities. Currently, the group I am working with consists mostly of individuals diagnosed with down syndrome. It has been an amazing opportunity and I love each second with them.
       First off, what exactly is "behavioral analysis"? My research conducted from psychology.about.com has told me that behavioral analysis focuses on, "helping children and adults learn new behaviors or reduce problem behaviors."  New behaviors could include aiding the individual with communication or dressing themselves. Problem behaviors could include such things as aggression towards self or others, disrobing of one's clothing in public, or stealing. These are some of the things that I have witnessed at my job and dealing with these kind of issues is something that I really do enjoy. I find it extremely rewarding to help individuals with developmental disabilities cope with some of their stresses and anxieties. This is why I am looking forwarding to obtaining a behavioral analysis degree, to learn more about the subject and getting the chance to help more people who have developmental disabilities. So, for this blog I would like to research behavioral analysis. During this term I would like to gain more insight in my actual research skills. There is so much information that can be found on the internet and it can be so crucial knowing what is actually viable and where to find this useful information. Also, as this is my very first semester here at Brandman, I would like to gain more knowledge in citing my sources. This will serve me well while at Brandman and I believe that it is something that I need to improve upon. I am excited about this next eight weeks of blogging, welcome to all!