Did you know that 1 in 100 Australians has autism? Most people have heard of autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the way people communicate and interact. However, there are many myths and misconceptions.

These myths can be dispelled at a better time than World Autism Awareness Day. Every April 2, people all over the globe celebrate the accomplishments of autistic children and adults. It is also a great day to address misinformation about autism. Because the more information we have about autism, the better we can assist autistic people in living fulfilling lives.

Our research has shown that 98% of Australians have heard about autism. Only 29% of people say they can support someone with autism, and only 4% think others know how to help them,” stated David Tonge, Executive Manager, Capacity Building,

You can help make society more inclusive for autistic persons if you are more knowledgeable about autism. It is easy to make small adjustments to your behavior to create an inclusive world for autistic persons.

Are you ready to be part of the change? Let’s dispel some myths. We must thank Amaze, our friends, for providing this amazing information.

Myth 1 – Autism can be treated

Autism is a condition that cannot be treated. Autism is a condition that can be born and will remain for the rest of their lives. Many people with autism or other autism spectrum disorders can live normal lives with the right treatment.

Myth 2 – Autism is a mental disorder

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition and not a mental illness. The brain of an autistic person is wired differently than a neurotypical person. This affects how they interact with the world and communicate. However, autistic individuals can also experience mental health issues.

Myth 3 – Autism is more common among boys

Boys are twice as likely to have autistic girls as girls. Girls can often go undiagnosed for a longer time. Autism can appear differently in girls and women than it does in boys and men. There are also historical gender biases in diagnostic and screening tools for autism. A girl might be called shy, while a boy could be diagnosed as autistic.

Myth 4: Vaccines cause autism

Another myth has been busted by the hard work of scientists over the last 20 years. Many believed that the MMR (measles, measles, and rubella) vaccine causes autism. This was based on a dubious study that has since been disproven. Unfortunately, many people believe it today.

Myth 5 – Autistic people lack empathy

Autistic people may feel unable to read body language and can be perceived as lacking empathy. However, if they can express their emotions clearly (e.g. “I’m sorry that this happened”), then they will be more likely to show compassion and empathy. It’s important to understand that they also have feelings.

Myth 6 – Autistic people are antisocial

Although autistic people interact differently, many still enjoy building relationships and making friends. When they feel overwhelmed by sensory overload, some autistic people might become aggressive or lash out. This is not a sign that they are being violent or mean to others. It’s more about their feeling frustrated or distressed.

Myth 7 – Autism is synonymous with genius

It would be so nice! However, most autistic people are the same intelligence-wise as everyone else. They are not all as brilliant as Dustin Hoffman in Rain Man… but only a few people will have extraordinary talent which is known to be called savant skills’.

Myth 8 – Children with autism can’t speak

Each child with autism has a unique personality. Some children with autism may have delayed speech, or not be able to use words properly. Others will be very talkative. Some children with autism start speaking earlier than others.

Myth 9: Parents cause autism

Some people believe parents are to blame for autism in their children. There is no correlation between parenting style and autism risk. Autism is present at birth, as we have already noted. Parents may be able to make adjustments to the way they raise their child with autism, or they may be guided to do so.

Myth 10 Autism spectrum: ‘not very’ to “very”

The autism spectrum is something you’ve likely heard about. It’s not a straight-line scale. It doesn’t go anywhere from “not very autistic” to “very autistic”. It refers to autistic people’s diversity.

Does this help you understand autism better?

This quick session will help you to understand autism and dispel some myths. Amaze offers many great resources on its website.

In the meantime, Happy World Autism Awareness Day to everyone.