6 Myths about Autism that needs to be debunked

Autism, commonly known as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a complicated developmental illness that affects how people interact, communicate, learn, and conduct. People with ASD have variations in brain function that can affect their behaviour and social interactions. Autism appears before the age of three and lasts throughout a person’s lifetime. It is a spectrum condition, which means that it affects people differently and to variable degrees.

There are numerous misconceptions and myths about autism and people with autism. These stereotypes about autism can be offensive, damaging, stigmatising, or simply false, so spreading the word about what autism is and isn’t is critical to ensuring that autistic individuals receive the care, assistance, and understanding they require and deserve. 

Autism Spectrum Disorder, also known as ‘autism’ or ASD, affects around one in every 100 persons. Autism is most commonly diagnosed in youngsters, however it is possible for people to be diagnosed later in life.

Autism people may have these troubles 

• Learning: Autism can cause learning difficulties, such as delayed skill development. For example, someone with autism may struggle to communicate but excel at art, music, arithmetic, or memory-related activities. As a result, individuals may excel at analytical or problem-solving assessments .
• Sensory stimulation: They also differ in how they respond to sensory input such as sound, light, clothing, and temperature. Intense, too focused interest in topics or actions is another prevalent ASD symptom.
• Communication: Communication and understanding others’ thoughts and emotions might be difficult for someone with autism. This makes it hard for them to express themselves, either with words or through gestures, facial expressions, and touch.
• Behaviour:  According to psychologists, repetitive movements (e.g., hand-flapping), rigid adherence to routines, or an intense focus on specific interests can provide individuals with autism with a sense of comfort and predictability, assisting them in managing the overwhelming sensory information they experience.

 Symptoms of Autism

• Absence of enjoyment in activities
• Facial expressions that don’t match verbal communication
• Having trouble making eye contact. 

• Difficulty following and participating in talks.

• Stimming behaviours (i.e., self-stimulating, repetitive acts such as rocking, walking on toes, or waving the hands)

• Intense interest in particular subjects.

People with lesser autism symptoms are usually able to operate in their daily lives. However, they may be more prone to other mental health difficulties such as excessive stress, compulsive behaviours, sensory issues, anxiety, and depression. Autism is typically diagnosed in childhood, however it can also be recognised later in life. It can affect people of all socioeconomic levels, genders, races, and ethnicities.

Read More: Autism Spectrum Disorder: Causes, Symptoms, Types and Treatment

We’re weird, there’s no denying that. But there’s a difference between being different and straight up not understanding things.

Patrick Kelly

Myths around Autism 

Myth #1. Autism is caused by bad parenting 

Truth: “Bad parenting” does not cause autism. While varying parenting styles can affect mental health, it cannot create a developmental condition like autism. Before modern autism research was developed, doctors in the 1960s placed the blame on non-nurturing parents. Nicknaming them “refrigerator mothers,” these mothers were described as cold and unaffectionate to their children. With solidified knowledge, it is now known that this is false. Autism is caused by genetics or environmental factors.

Read More: 4 Autism Therapy Techniques for Parents

Myth #2. People with Autism does not have emotion or empathy 

Truth: Alexithymia is frequently used as a secondary diagnosis for various mental health problems and disabilities, such as depression and Autism. However, this does not imply that everyone with these diseases has difficulty expressing and recognising emotions. According to studies, it only affects a small percentage of people.

People with alexithymia may perceive themselves as having difficulty expressing socially acceptable feelings, such as happiness on a wonderful occasion. Others may have difficulty identifying their feelings. Such people are not necessarily apathetic. Instead, they may lack the intensity of their peers’ emotions and struggle to feel empathy.

Myth #3. All people with Autism have intellectual disabilities 

Truth: Intellectual impairment is defined as issues with reasoning, problem solving, processing complex ideas, and other cognitive functions; it is diagnosed when the intelligence quotient (IQ) is 70 or lower. Autism, on the other hand, is characterised mostly by social difficulties, communication problems, and repetitive behaviours.

Read More: The Good Doctor: Portraying Autism Disorder through an Interesting Story

Myth #4. Autism can be “cured ” 

Truth: There is no universal cure for autism, but all medical conditions are potentially treatable. When the health issues and impairments linked with autism are correctly detected and handled, the detrimental consequences on cognitive and emotional function will be lessened.

In other words, the underlying factors that contribute to an autism diagnosis may vary. A Thinking Autism poll of over 200 families who utilized a combination of nutritional, dietary, and other therapeutic interventions to address autism-related challenges found that 95% deemed them beneficial, with 24% describing some therapies as “life-changing.”

Read More: Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Spectrum Disorder

Myth #5. Individual with autism are always non verbal 

Truth: While some people with autism may be nonverbal or have limited speech, it’s important to recognise that communication abilities vary greatly from person to person. Many are fully capable of speaking and using language, but they may face difficulties in social communication or have unique ways of expressing themselves, such as through writing or technology-assisted communication

Myth # 6 Individuals with Autism Don’t Want Social Interaction 

Truth: While some persons with autism struggle with social contact, many want social relationships and friendships just like everyone else. Sensory sensitivity and trouble recognising social cues can also cause social issues. Understanding and managing these limitations can help people with autism participate in social interactions more comfortably 

Debunking autism myths is critical for creating a more inclusive and understanding society. Autism is a distinct and distinctive experience, and removing these myths contributes to a more supportive and welcoming environment for people with autism. Recognising the reality about autism helps foster empathy, awareness, and possibilities for growth and inclusion for all individuals on the spectrum.

Autistic persons have the right to the patience, compassion, and support they need, and if we all realise the importance of never stopping learning and improving in our understanding of ASD, we will all be better off.

FAQs

1. What is Autism?

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects how individuals communicate, behave, and interact with others. It can manifest in various ways, and its severity can vary widely among individuals.

2. Are people with Autism Non-verbal?

Not all individuals with autism are non-verbal. While some may have difficulty speaking or may not speak at all, many people with autism can communicate through words, gestures, or alternative communication methods such as sign language or communication devices.

3. Is autism caused by bad parenting?

No, autism is not caused by parenting. It is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Parenting style has no scientific evidence linking it to the development of autism.

4. Can people with autism lead independent lives?

Many individuals with autism can live independent and fulfilling lives with the right support, education, and interventions. However, some may require lifelong support depending on the severity of their condition.

5. Is autism the same in all individuals?

No, autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning it affects individuals in different ways and to varying degrees. One person with autism might have challenges with speech, while another might excel in a particular area like mathematics or music.

6. Do all individuals with autism have intellectual disabilities?

No, not all individuals with autism have intellectual disabilities. Many individuals with autism have average or above-average intelligence, while others may have intellectual disabilities. Intellectual ability varies widely across the spectrum.

7. Is autism a disease that can be cured?

Answer: Autism is not a disease and cannot be cured. However, various therapies, interventions, and support systems can help individuals with autism develop skills to manage daily challenges and improve their quality of life.

8. Are vaccines linked to autism?

Answer: No, vaccines do not cause autism. The claim that vaccines cause autism has been thoroughly debunked by multiple scientific studies, and the original research that suggested a link was found to be fraudulent and has been retracted.

9. Do people with autism lack empathy?

Answer: No, individuals with autism can experience and express empathy. However, they may have difficulty recognizing or interpreting social cues, which can sometimes make their empathy seem different from others. Their way of expressing empathy may be unique.

10. Can early intervention improve outcomes for individuals with autism?

Answer: Yes, early intervention is critical in helping individuals with autism develop key skills and reach their full potential. Therapy and support provided early in life can improve communication, social skills, and adaptive behaviors.