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Autism Myths

© Sharon Gillson

There are many preconceived notions as to what autism is and isn't, and for a parent with a newly diagnosed child, it can be very confusing. These parents may think the diagnosis is wrong their child is doing something that they believe autistic children don't do. There can also be feelings of hopelessness as to what their children will be able to do because they've heard autistic children will never talk, show affection, or be able to learn.

There are several myths about what autism is and isn't. I will present these myths, and give you the realities.

Myth number 1: Autistic children never make eye contact.

Reality: Many autistic children do establish eye contact. It may be less than that of a non-autistic child, but they can look at people, and can maintain that eye contact. My youngest, whose autism is more disabling for him than his two older siblings with autism, is able to maintain eye contact more easily than his older brother and sister.

Myth number 2: Children with autism do not talk. If they talk, they do not have autism.

Reality: Many autistic children develop very good language skills. This is especially true of High Functioning Autistic (HFA) individuals, and those diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome. Even those who do not speak use other forms of communication, such as sign language.

Myth number 3: Children with autism cannot show affection.

Reality: This is probably one of the most devastating of all the myths about autism. It is also, thankfully, not true. Children with autism process stimulation differently than non-autistic individuals. This can make it difficult for them to express affection in the conventional way. Children with autism can and do give affection; they do form attachments to others. A parent may need to accept and give love on the child's terms, since it may take the child longer to develop a connection with his parents than a non-autistic child, and they may express this affection differently.

Myth number 4: Children who don't follow social rules are being stubborn or difficult.

Reality: Non-autistic children learn the social rules by watching others. With autistic children, they have to be taught these rules directly. This can be a long process. Not all the behavior they display is because of an act of will.

Myth number 5: Children with autism do not smile.

Reality: Autistic children can and do smile, laugh, and can be extremely happy.

Myth number 6: Children with autism do not want friends.