Myths And Facts About Autism

There are misconceptions and myths with regard to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) floating around. Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) cover a wide range of symptoms such as difficulty socializing, sensory disorders, and so on. No two people on the spectrum are similar, and each person with autism has their own strengths and are in need of their own supports, as all humans do. To get a better understanding of autism, it's best to start with demolishing popular misconceptions about this developmental disorder.

Myth - Everyone with ASD is non-verbal or a savant.

Fact - ASD is a neurodevelopment disorder that occurs on a spectrum. The diagnosis of ASD covers a wide swath of functioning and encompasses the former diagnoses of Asperger’s disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder. The challenges caused by ASD differ widely with respect to severity, bearing on daily life, and impact on classroom performance. Language issues range from impaired social communication to reduced comprehension to being non - verbal. Some adults with ASD are able to live independently, while others are dependent on support structures. In short, there is no one set of parameters that determines or defines ASD.

Myth - People with ASD are unable to form relationships.

Fact - Though social interaction deficits are found in certain people on the spectrum, they are still able to have fulfilling and rich relationships with family members, friends, relatives, and neighbors. The earlier view that most people on the spectrum prefer to be on their own, studies such as the one conducted by Brownlow, Rosqvist, & O’Dell, in 2015 have demonstrated otherwise. Despite people on the spectrum wishing to form social bonds, they still may find it hard to weave relationships and comprehend social cues. Luckily, Social media channels can act as catalysts in helping these people form social relationships with others on the spectrum as well as neurotypical individuals. Classroom environments with trained & skilled teachers are a good place to start the journey of social relationships.

Myth- Vaccine's cause ASD.

Fact - Myth totally busted. There is absolutely no link or evidence between the two. As of now, 61 genetic variations are linked with ASD risk, as well as repeated or deleted sections of DNA and chromosomal abnormalities. The risk factors linked to ASD include advanced paternal age, poor maternal physical and mental health, maternal prenatal medication use, mother's exposure to chemicals, premature birth, complications during birth, low birth weight, jaundice, and post birth infection. Mumps, measles, and rubella are also associated with an increased risk of ASD.

Myth - People with ASD are violent.

Fact - People on the spectrum are shown as being violent in the media and on social media platforms, but these situations are few, isolated, and in need of context. As stated, there are no two of them same individuals on the spectrum. Individuals with autism are as susceptible to violence as any neurotypical person.

Myth - ASD can be cured.

Fact - This is not a disease that can be cured. With treatment and therapies, symptoms and maladaptive behaviors can be lessened over time.