Busting Myths:
The Truth About Autism Spectrum Disorder
We discovered some interesting facts and myths about Autism Spectrum Disorder during our research. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects social function, communication, and behavior. In our research, we found that autism symptoms and characteristics vary widely from person to person. The following myths and misconceptions about autism have been explored and provided with factual information to provide a more complete understanding of the condition.
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For example, when someone meets an autistic person, s/he would immediately assume and judge them quickly and start criticizing him or her, like why can’t you participate in the conversation or why are you quiet. But an autistic person can't express her/his thoughts or speak up quickly and could not say something to clarify some things. Not all autistic people can speak, think, or express as normal people do. Some autistic people are nonverbal or would express themselves in visual pictures; some can speak but have limited vocabulary, and some can speak well but not think quickly. We must think before we act or say since we don't know their capabilities and limits as autistic people. While it may be easy to judge someone based on their actions or appearance, we should make an effort to understand why they have Autism.
01
Myth: An autistic person cannot have a job.
Fact: As long as they have accommodations and support, Autistic People can do any job.
Individuals with Autism possess diverse abilities and strengths and can excel in many different careers. They can thrive in various occupations, from laboratory work to web design.
02
Myth: An autistic person can’t have a relationship.
Fact: As long as they have accommodations and support, Autistic People can do any job.
Individuals with Autism possess diverse abilities and strengths and can excel in many different careers. They can thrive in various occupations, from laboratory work to web design.
03
Myth: An autistic person is dangerous!
Fact: People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may get mad and frustrated more easily than most people, but they are not dangerous.
This can cause them to have difficulty controlling their emotions. This could lead to outbursts, meltdowns, and other forms of emotional distress. For example, a person with ASD may become overwhelmed by a loud and crowded environment, resulting in an outburst of aggression and an inability to control their emotions.
04
Myth: Everyone with autism is the same!
Fact: People with ASD have a wide range of skills and talents.
In the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (HH) community, it's the same concept. A common misconception is that all Deaf people can't speak, but this isn't true. Some deaf or hard-of-hearing people can speak well. So, there are many skills people with ASD can master, such as writing, painting, teaching, being a lawyer, etc. Also, each of them has their own skills, personalities, and characteristics.
05
Myth: Autism is characterized by unkindness.
Fact: Autism is a complex neurological condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior, but it does not determine a person's personality or character.
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Autistic individuals may struggle with conversation, eye contact, communication, and emotional understanding.
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Myth: An autistic person does not talk.
Fact: Autism is a complex neurological condition that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior, but it does not determine a person's personality or character.
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Autistic individuals may struggle with conversation, eye contact, communication, and emotional understanding
07
Myth: Autism only develops early.
Fact: Adults can also be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Although ASD is often diagnosed in early childhood, it can be diagnosed at any age. Some adults may realize they have autism later in life after struggling with social situations or feeling different. Adults who notice signs of ASD should talk with a healthcare provider and request a referral for an ASD evaluation.
08
Myth: Autism means ‘less intelligent.’
Fact: It is not true that autistic people are less intelligent. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) does not boost or lower intelligence in people.
However, nearly one in three autistic people have an intellectual disability, an intelligence quotient (IQ) below 70, which can limit their adaptive behaviors. It is estimated that around 50% of people with autism also suffer from an intellectual disability. Nonetheless, some autistic individuals may have hidden strengths and unique cognitive abilities. Highly gifted autistic people are rare, but at least one in 10 people with autism has savant abilities. One study found that 37% of people in the sample exhibited savant skills, unusual cognitive skills, or both. Therefore, it is important to avoid generalizations and stereotypes about the intelligence of autistic people.
09
Myth: Autism is a disease.
Fact: Autism is not a disease but rather a developmental disability that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave.
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A neurological and developmental disorder can cause significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges. Notice the word; it says it is a disorder. What is the difference between a disease and a disorder? A disease is a specific label for illness concepts, typically with a specific issue that a healthcare provider can diagnose. On the other hand, a disorder is a disruption in the body's normal functions, the cause of which can be unknown. While there is no known cure for autism, current treatments and interventions aim to reduce symptoms that interfere with daily functioning and quality of life.
Bonus
Autistic people are known for their knowledge and talent in specific areas. Special abilities and superior skills are more common in autism than in other groups.
Research has shown that people with autism have a stronger aptitude for focusing on tasks and can have particular interests or fixations. Autistic individuals can also have encyclopedic knowledge due to their special interests and fixations. Additionally, students with autism can have specialist knowledge in topics of interest, exceptional memory for facts and figures, and a high level of motivation in topics and activities that interest them.
