SHELBY Dustin Parris adjusts the camouflage baseball cap perched on the side of his head it must be cocked to the side just the way he likes it.

The 6-year-olds cheeks and arms are coated with white lotion. It helps soothe the poison oak rash he got one day while exploring outdoors. He loves tractors, lawnmowers and swimming in the pool.

When hes outside, hes content.

Hes so fast, so smart, Suzan Parris said of her son. No fear.

When Dustin hears his mother talking about her smart, strong boy, he smiles. A few new teeth peek through his gums.

Suddenly, the smile disappears. Dustin is frustrated. He wants his mothers undivided attention always.

Dustin raises his fist to his temple. He beats himself in the head. He brings his forearm to his mouth, squeezes his eyes shut and bites his skin.

Meltdowns

Whack. Whack. Whack.

Dustin continues to pound the side of his head. Suzan looks firmly into her sons eyes and grabs his arms so he cant continue the beating.

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