As knowledge and awareness of autism grows in the community, so do the myths.
Autism is currently diagnosed according to behaviors that fit into three broad areas: social difficulties, communication impairments, and patterns of restrictive, repetitive behaviors, and interests. A minimum number of behavioral symptoms must be present in each area of impairment for a diagnosis.
The difficulties associated with autism can be obvious, such as language delays or stereotypical motor movements like hand flapping. But some deficits can be much more subtle and only become apparent in social situations, such as problems with play or initiating conversation.
Although all three areas of difficulty are required for a diagnosis of autistic disorder, autism can present differently and each child will have a unique pattern of symptoms. This can sometimes create confusion – and from this, myths about autism emerge. Here are the five most common myths we encounter.
