World Autism Awareness Day was first designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007. The resolution, known as ‘62/139’, declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day to highlight the need to improve the quality of life of individuals with autism so they can lead full and meaningful lives. Since then, every year, organisations, communities, and individuals worldwide participate in various events and initiatives to raise awareness and promote autism acceptance. Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition, and unfortunately, there’s a lot of outdated or inaccurate information floating around.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is often surrounded by misconceptions and misinformation. Here are some of the most common myths and the facts to dispel them:
Myth: Autism is a white people disease.
Fact: Black people can and do suffer from autism. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), due to stigma and lack of health services in largely minority communities, Black people are significantly less likely to be identified and diagnosed with autism. Without a diagnosis, it is difficult to find treatment or intervention model that best suits one’sz needs. In Zimbabwe, Chitiyo and Chitiyo (2019) reported that the major problem lies in the lack of awareness on ASD as a clinical issue. The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Zimbabwe is largely unknown owing to limited research in this area. Unlike in developed countries, many individuals with ASD do not get the correct diagnosis early enough to promote timely interventions.
Myth: Vaccines cause autism.
Fact: This myth has been thoroughly debunked by extensive scientific research. Major health organizations worldwide, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strongly recommend childhood vaccinations to protect children from preventable diseases.
Myth: All autistic people are the same.
Fact: Autism is a spectrum, meaning it affects individuals in varying degrees. People with ASD can have a wide range of strengths, challenges, and experiences.
Myth: People with autism lack emotions or empathy.
Fact: People with ASD may express emotions differently, but they do experience a full range of emotions. They may also struggle with understanding and responding to the emotions of others, but this doesn’t mean they lack empathy altogether.
Myth: Autism is caused by bad parenting.
Fact: There is no evidence to support this claim. The exact causes of autism are complex and likely involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Myth: People with autism can’t live fulfilling lives.
Fact: Many people with ASD lead happy and productive lives. They may have unique needs and require support, but they can achieve great things in various fields.
Myth: All autistic people have intellectual disabilities.
Fact: Intellectual ability varies greatly among people with ASD. Some individuals may have intellectual disabilities, while others may have average or even above-average intelligence.
Myth: People with autism can’t be funny.
Fact: Humor can be expressed in many ways. People with ASD may have a unique sense of humor, but they can still appreciate jokes and be funny themselves.
Conclusion
Understanding these myths and learning the facts about autism, can create a more inclusive and supportive world for everyone. Autism misinformation and myths can have a significant negative impact on individuals with autism, their families, and society as a whole. Some of the key dangers of misinformation are delayed diagnosis and intervention; social stigma and isolation; unrealistic expectations and frustration, wasted resources and exploitation; reduced funding and support; and, hinderance to acceptance and inclusion.
