A
“
utism is a developmental
disability that is caused by
differences in how the brain
functions. People with autism spectrum
disorder (ASD) may communicate, inter-
act, behave, and learn in different ways.”
(www.cdc.gov) About 1 in 59 children
have been diagnosed with ASD according
to the CDC. (www.cdc.gov) While autism
may be common, there are many myths and
misinformation circulating that are simply
untrue. This article will correct some of the
most common misconceptions.
MYTH
#1
Autism is
caused by
vaccinations.
One of the com-
mon, and perhaps the most controver-
sial, misconceptions about ASD is that
childhood vaccinations, such as MMR,
cause kids to develop autism. According
to the CDC and the Institute of Medi-
cine, there is no link between vaccines
and autism. (https://www.cdc.gov/vac-
cinesafety/concerns/autism.html). The
American Academy of Pediatrics has
also compiled extensive research on this
Myths & Truths
subject. (https://www.healthychildren.
org/English/safety-prevention/immuni-
zations/Pages/Vaccine-Studies-Exam-
ine-the-Evidence.aspx). According to
Autism Speaks, there is no single cause
of autism (https://www.autismspeaks.
org/what-causes-autism)
MYTH
#2
People with au-
tism are geniuses.
There is a common
misconception that all
DOES YOUR CHILD HAVE AUTISM?
people with autism spectrum disorder
are geniuses, can do difficult math prob-
lems in their heads, or have a special
gift. It is true, some people with ASD do
have unique talents and gifts. However,
extreme cases like the one seen in the
movie Rainman, are rare. As our culture
progresses in the understanding of au-
tism, it is acknowledged that many peo-
ple with autism have high intelligence,
great attention to detail, and view the
world in a different way that is valued
in work environments. This opens a new
set of opportunities in the workforce for
people with autism.
MYTH
#3
We’re here to help.
Comprehensive services for children and adults with autism.
Support for your family.
· Evaluations
· Early Autism Program (Preschool)
· Summit Academy (Ages 3-21)
· Respite Programs
· Pediatric Feeding Clinic
· Recreation & Leisure Programs
· Vocational & Employment Services
· Adult Programs
· Behavioral Health Clinic
· Parent Training
We are WNY’s largest provider of evidence-based
programs and services for autism.
Our programs use Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
methodology – identified by hundreds of scientific
studies as the most effective method to teach
individuals with autism.
Our goal is to help your child lead the most independent
and fulfilling life possible.
Call 716-629-3400 | Visit TheSummitCenter.org
64 WNY Family March 2020
People with
autism don’t
want friends.
It is true that
many people with
ASD struggle to understand social norms
which may cause them to feel isolated or
to value alone time more than group set-
tings. The myth here is that people with
autism do not want friends or value close
relationships. They do. Everyone needs
friends, attention, love, and acceptance,
and all people deserve it as well. People
with ASD may need friends that are un-
derstanding and supportive of their so-
cial struggles and may benefit from sup-
port groups that help them build social
skills.
MYTH
#4
People with
autism don’t
experience
emotions.
Those who have autism may find it
hard to understand other people’s feel-
ings and read body language, but that