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| There are a lot of myths that make it hard to understand what autism is really like. |
Everyone is different. When you find stories about autistic people that are tragic or outrageous, it's just about a single person. Media news shares heartwarming and, sometimes, heartbreaking stories about individuals with autism. This news sometimes change the way people see autism in today’s society!
As you read through these myths, remember to have in mind that most of the people with autism are neither disabled individuals nor geniuses.
Here are some myths and facts that can change the way you see autism:
- Autistic people don’t have feelings
The myth: Autistic people cannot feel or express empathy or love.
The fact: Autistic people are extremely capable of feeling and expressing those emotions, maybe not in the most typical way, but autistic people are far more empathic than the average person.
- Autistic people are all alike
The myth: If you meet an autistic person, you’ll probably get an idea of how all autistic people are like.
The fact: All autistic people seem to have a common difficulty with social communication, but they are all as different as they could be.
- Autistic people are a danger to society
The myth: People with autism are dangerous in today’s world.
The fact: Public news reports of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder committing violent crimes have led people to fear and think that autism leads to violence. Some autistic individuals may have violent behaviors, but these behaviors are often directed towards themselves rather than others. Also, aggressive behaviors from people with autism are almost always caused by physical or sensory overload, frustration, or similar issues.
- Autistic people don’t build relationships
The myth: Autistic people cannot build solid relationships with others.
The fact: Yes, it’s true that is very unlikely that an autistic person will be a cheerleader or football captain, but that doesn’t mean that they are unable to have solid relationships with others. Many autistic people build strong friendships and relationships, get married and have satisfying romantic relationships.
- Autistic people have no language skills
The myth: Most autistic people are nonverbal or almost nonverbal.
The facts: Some autistic people are nonverbal or almost nonverbal. But people diagnosed with this spectrum can also be extremely verbal individuals with high language skills.
- All autistic people are savants
The myth: All autistic people have extraordinary “savant” abilities, such as amazing musical or mathematical skills.
The fact: A few autistic people are “savant.” While some autistic savants use their abilities for practical purposes, most of them aren’t that skillful. They are unable to use their skills in the context of school or business setting. The majority of autistic people have ordinary skills that they can develop.
- Autistic people have little or no potential for success
The myth: Due to their lack of average skills, autistic people are considered to have little or no potential for success.
The fact: Autistic people, like the average, can achieve great things, supported by those who believe in their potential. Autistic people are innovative individuals; they see the world through a different lens and with a different perspective. That can make a great impact in the world!
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| Everyone is different. When you find stories about autistic people as tragic or outrageous, it's just about a single person. |
Autistic people are not ordinary but do have certain abilities and skills that represent them. Apart from some unusual facts, autistic people prove to be capable of doing good in the world and achieving success with the right support.
For more content about the Autism Spectrum Disorder, myths, facts, and general information about the topic, make sure to follow our social media and keep reading our blog. Autism Soccer is here to help autistic children develop safely and offer them support to achieve success!
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