Myths about autism
There are many myths surrounding autism and what I intend to do is to restate them in this blog. Myths are fallacy not fact.
If we are to accept every individual for their differences, then it is vital that we understand the true facts about autism spectrum disorder. Myths about autism continue to cause more alienation, stereotyping, and lost opportunities. I have chosen the top 12 myths about autism to debunk.
Myth: Autism is caused by vaccinations.
Restatement: This myth was sensationalised by Andrew Wakefield’s research which has now been discredited. Research repeatedly reflects that vaccinations are not linked to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is a neurological disorder. The coincidental timing of administering vaccinations and the characteristics of ASD manifesting is usually around the age of two.
- Myth: Autism results from bad parenting.
Restatement: This myth was introduced by Kanner and then later strengthened by Bettleheim’s label in 1966 of ‘refrigerator mothers.’ He stated that the mothers were cold towards their children, which caused their children to behave the way they did. Research debunks this myth over and over, highlighting the crucial role families play in the support of individuals on the autism spectrum.
- Myth: Individuals on the autism spectrum prefer to be alone.
Restatement: Most individuals with ASD want and enjoy making friends. Their different way of thinking impacts their social communication and social interaction making it difficult for them to pick up on social cues of others. Some prefer to be alone sometimes or most of the time.
- Myth: All individuals on the autism spectrum are alike.
Restatement: Although people with ASD are diagnosed using the dyad of impairments from the DSM-5, no two individuals are alike. Although most individuals on the autism spectrum will have similar characteristics, autism affects each person differently and in varying degrees, hence why it is described as a spectrum.
- Myth: Autism is curable.
Restatement: To date there has been no cure found for ASD. It is a complex spectrum condition with many variables. The effects of ASD are lifelong, however individuals can learn skills to help them in specific situations.
- Myth: Autism is on the rise.
Restatement: Better diagnostic processes, screening by clinicians and health professionals, and an increased awareness of ASD has led to the rise in diagnosis. As more research is carried out and updated procedures become available ASD is diagnosed at a younger age and a more correct diagnosis can be given. With the amalgamation of four criteria in the current DSM-5, ASD now includes all of them.
7. Myth: Children with autism can’t learn.
Restatement: Actually, they can, once the rest of us get educated on how to teach them well. Most of children will progress with therapy, but it has to be effective, meaning it is individualised for each child. In some cases, learning in challenging, and for whom development will be very slow. Nevertheless, change can happen with slow and steady improvements. That chid must have a family and teachers that are consistent, persistent and implement effective methods of teaching.
8. Myth – All individuals on the spectrum have savant skills.
Restatement: Sorry to break it you but around 10% of the autistic population have savant skills. Not all count cards at the casino or can memorise and recite the phone directory. Undoubtedly, there are some individuals that perform amazing recall feats, but is quite rare. Numerous children with ASD share some strengths, including being visual learners or having exceptional visual memory. Using these strengths to support them to navigate the world is essential.
- Myth: People with autism can’t feel or express any emotion.Restatement: Autism affects the way that a person communicates emotions. It also alters the way your expressions are perceived. Autism does not make an individual incapable of feeling emotions neurotypical individuals feel.
- Myth: People with autism can’t understand the feelings of other people.Restatement: ASD regularly affects a person’s ability to understand nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions and body language. This is evident when a person with autism may be oblivious to someone’s sadness based a person’s demeanour. Individuals with autism are far more likely to be empathetic and compassionate if direct communication is used to convey feelings.
- Myth: People with autism are intellectually disabled.Restatement: 44% of children who are diagnosed or identified as having autism have average or above-average intellectual abilities. (CDC, 2017). Autism brings its challenges, but also exceptional talents. Numerous autistic people have average to high IQs with particular people excelling in maths, music etc.
- Myth: Everyone with autism is the same.
Fact: Nope not true! As the popular saying goes, if you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism. ASD is a condition, not a character, and people diagnosed with it are as different from each other as everyone else. Yes, they all have the similar characteristics, however you could say the same for people in general. We are called individuals for a reason…… we are individual to each other whether you have autism or not! >>> LEARN MORE>>>
Until next time
Voula