Misinformation Surrounding Autism
When navigating social media, I am often struck by how much misinformation is promulgated about Autism. In a world where those with Autism often struggle because people don’t understand them, misinformation exacerbates the problem.
One of the earliest pieces of misinformation about Autism was put forth by Leo Kanner, who identified Autism in 1943. His theory that “refrigerator mothers” caused Autism (now discredited) is pretty clearly misinformation to any of us who have been around an Autism mom – we love, support and protect with every cell in our bodies.
Another unhelpful myth is that of “The Rainman.” While some with Autism have the ability to tell you what day of the week any date occurred on, play an instrument by ear, or have exceptional memories, the majority do not. Autism is a spectrum disorder and only about 10% are estimated to have “savant” skills.
Thirty years ago, one of the printed Autism resources, consisted of a series of stick figures depicting Autism (and failing to mention that these characteristics were not universal). Included was the myth that Autistic people have no empathy. While I have run into plenty of people in my life that have no empathy, most of them were NOT Autistic.
I think what is interpreted as a lack of empathy is more likely a lack of the skill to express it. Or, perhaps, someone being so overwhelmed with the emotion that they shut down. One of my vivid memories is of taking my son, Kieran, to speech therapy and, when his therapist closed the door to keep her daughter out of the room, he (obviously distressed) chided her, “but, Mindy, she’s CRYING.”
Another of the stick figures announced that those with Autism have no sense of humor. This may result from the literal interpretation of language that may prevent understanding of a joke. It is, I think, clear to anyone who has spent time with the Autistic that many of them have a tremendous sense of humor. If you want to hear a bad pun, just spend a little time with my son!
And, finally, let me get to the “cure” myths. No, children do not outgrow Autism. They may learn the skills so their Autism is barely detectible. As for finding a “cure” for Autism – it is a set of neurological and developmental differences, not a disease. Many people with Autism don’t want to be “cured”. They want to be understood and treated kindly. They want people to understand that their differences are not faults, but strengths. They want to live in a world where they don’t have to mask who they truly are – a world where myths are remembered to be fiction.
The challenge for August: as Autism advocates, we need to be more vigilant about myth busting!
And, don’t forget, August 19 is National Soft Serve Ice Cream Day. I see a walk to Dairy Queen in Kieran’s future.
Kathi J. Machle, President
Just in time for back to school, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the Autism Society of America have released Beyond Acceptance: Autism Inclusion and Equity—A Guide for Educators, Parents, and Students, a comprehensive resource designed to help schools, families, and communities create learning environments where Autistic students are supported, included, and empowered to succeed.
The guide provides an overview of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), explains Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans, outlines students’ legal rights, shares practical strategies to support learning and inclusion, offers guidance on postsecondary transition planning, and features lived experiences from members of the Autism community.