Addressing Common Myths MYTH

All individuals on the autism spectrum have 'savant' skills or special talents.

Fact

Only a small proportion (~10%) of individuals on the autism spectrum have exceptional abilities in areas like music, art, manual dexterity, memory, or mathematical calculations. Meanwhile, most individuals with autism have splinter skills, which refers to a high-ability performance in their chosen area of interest. However, it is also important to remember that autistic individuals, like neurotypical individuals, could be wellrounded in multiple areas and not exhibit a prominent unique ability or skill.

Individuals on the autism spectrum do not have feelings, which is why they cannot express emotions.

Fact

Individuals on the autism spectrum do and can express emotions. However, due to differences in sensory processing and social understanding, individuals with autism may express their feelings differently than neurotypical individuals. Understanding and accepting these differences is the key to promoting neurodiversity and the inclusion of autistic individuals.

Myth

Autism can be outgrown.

FACT

Children do not 'outgrow' autism. However, some symptoms may be less prominent as the child develops or receive the proper interventions.

MYTH

Autism is the result of bad parenting.

FACT

Clear evidence from research concludes that autism is not caused by bad parenting but by a difference in the way the brain develops before the child is born.

MYTH

Vaccines cause autism.

FACT

Vaccines do not cause autism. The myth that vaccines cause autism emerged when a small study in 1998 suggested this possible link. However, upon further review, the study was retracted, and the author's medical license was revoked due to falsified information. Since then, numerous studies have debunked the connection between autism and the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Myth

Individuals on the autism spectrum avoid social contact.

FACT

Individuals with autism often try to make friends and socialize with classmates but face difficulty initiating and responding to social cues.

Myth

There is a cure for autism.

FACT

There is currently no documented cure for autism. However, many types of therapies and early intervention programs allow people with autism to attain and build on specific skills. For instance, play therapy can help children improve their social and emotional skills, add to their language or communication ability, and expand the ways they interact with peers their age.

Myth

Individuals on the autism spectrum cannot lead independent and successful lives

FACT

Given personalized support and education, children with autism can grow up to be successful contributors to society.