An estimated 1 in every 68 children is diagnosed with an autism disorder (according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
Since April is National Autism Awareness Month, we asked Lori Warner, Ph.D., Director, Ted Lindsay Foundation HOPE Center and Center for Human Development, to clear up some of the more common myths surrounding autism:
MYTH: Autism is a mental health disorder.
Autism is a neurological disorder. Studies of patients with autism show abnormalities in neurotransmitter levels and the structure of the brain.
There are, however, some mental health issues that may co-occur with autism spectrum disorders, such as anxiety disorders, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) or depression.
MYTH: Autism is relatively new.
Though it was first described scientifically in the 1940s, the earliest description of a child now through to have had autism was written in 1799. The latest diagnostic category - autism spectrum disorder - is relatively new, but the general characteristics have been known for some time.
MYTH: People with autism are intellectually disabled.
Individuals on the autism spectrum are unique and have a wide range of intellectual abilities. Some may struggle with social skills or more foundational tasks, but can quickly master complex concepts. Some people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders go on to earn college and graduate degrees and work in a variety of professions.
MYTH: People with autism spectrum disorders lack empathy.
Individuals with autism spectrum disorders feel as much - if not more - empathy than you, though they may express it in a way that is difficult to recognize.
Researchers think that autism spectrum disorders are more disorders of social processing than actual lack of social interest or emotional capacity.
MYTH: Autism can be cured.
There is currently no cure for autism spectrum disorders. However, with appropriate intervention, some children do fall into the optimal outcome category, meaning that their skill set has changed to the point that they may be indistinguishable from their peers who never carried an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis.