Problem: To me, the statement "people are not their behaviors" means that a person's actions do not define who they are. Behaviors often reflect unmet needs, communication struggles, or environmental stress rather than someone's character or worth (AngelmanUK, 2019; Midland Video Productions, 2017). When I hear a statement like "Jerry is a biter," it creates an immediate negative impression and overlooks Jerry's personality, strengths, and humanity. As a human service professional, it's important for me to look beyond behaviors and try to understand what may be causing them. Defining individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) by their behaviors can contribute to stigma, lowered expectations, and social exclusion. People-first language helps protect dignity by emphasizing the person before the disability or behavior (Logsdon, 2020; Snow, n.d.). Instead of saying "Jerry is a biter," I would say something like, "Jerry is a person with an intellectual disability who sometimes engages in biting behavior when he feels overwhelmed." This approach recognizes the behavior without letting it define the person and promotes more respectful, compassionate care. Need Assignment Help?