EPISODE 28
Interview with Dr. Jed Baker on Anxiety, The Incredible Hulk and Life Satisfaction
Interview with Dr. Jed Baker on Anxiety, The Incredible Hulk and Life Satisfaction
Play the Episode…
…and Continue the Discussion
Do you have a book or podcast club? If so, you may use this discussion guide to facilitate a conversation about this episode.
1) Jed discusses his concept of challenges faced by autistic individuals by using the metaphor of “The Incredible Hulk”, and his alter ego, Dr. Banner, the logical scientist. How does he relate this metaphor to understanding the behavior and reactions of autistic people, and what are the implications for therapeutic approaches?
2) A common distinction in discussions about autism is the difference between meltdowns and tantrums. Jed does not find that distinction as helpful as others do. Why does he feel that way and do you agree? Do you have any personal experiences that support your position?
3) Jed discusses the importance of “life satisfaction” when considering what is most helpful when supporting autistic individuals. What does he say about this? Please relate your understanding to your own experience as an educator, autistic person or parent.
Featuring
JED BAKER
Jed Baker, Ph.D. is the director of the Social Skills Training Project, an organization serving individuals with autism and social communication problems. He is on the professional advisory board of Autism Today, ANSWER, YAI, the Kelberman Center and several other autism organizations. In addition, he writes, lectures, and provides training internationally on the topic of social skills training and managing challenging behaviors. He is an award winning author of 8 books, including Social Skills Training for Children and Adolescents with Aspergers Syndrome and Social Communication Problems; Preparing for Life: The Complete Handbook for the Transition to Adulthood for Those with Autism and Aspergers Syndrome; The Social Skills Picture Book; The Social Skills Picture Book for High School and Beyond; No More Meltdowns: Positive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Out-of-Control Behavior; No More Victims: Protecting those with Autism from Cyber Bullying, Internet Predators & Scams; Overcoming Anxiety in Children and Teens; and School Shadow Guidelines. His work has also been featured on ABC World News, Nightline, the CBS Early Show, and the Discovery Health Channel.
“Working with those with autism required me to map out carefully how to teach skills and create environments that match an individual’s needs. It led me to develop an understanding of the kind of settings that foster safety and growth and how we all find ways to regulate our anxiety.”
“I am jazz/funk drummer always struggling to improve. Trying to find a balance between enjoyment of playing, improving my skills and managing performance anxiety has been a means for me to understand the challenges for many of my clients struggling to be enjoy social interaction while trying to grow.”
Show Notes
Autistic people of all ages are vulnerable to many factors, both internal and external, that may lead to frustration, anxiety, and dysregulation. Dr. Jed Baker’s many publications and clinical innovations have directly addressed these challenges in respectful and insightful ways. We discuss ways to understand such challenges and provide support based on a deeper understanding of the experiences shared by autistic individuals. Jed also discusses his approach to enhancing social understanding and social relationships leading to increased self-esteem, confidence and life satisfaction.
For more of Jed’s work:
www.socialskillstrainingproject.com
https://www.amazon.com/Jed-Baker/e/B001JP01XG%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
Books include: Social Skills Training for Children and Adolescents with Aspergers Syndrome and Social Communication Problems; Preparing for Life: The Complete Handbook for the Transition to Adulthood for Those with Autism and Aspergers Syndrome; The Social Skills Picture Book; The Social Skills Picture Book for High School and Beyond; No More Meltdowns: Positive Strategies for Managing and Preventing Out-of-Control Behavior; No More Victims: Protecting those with Autism from Cyber Bullying, Internet Predators & Scams; Overcoming Anxiety in Children and Teens; and School Shadow Guidelines.