Common Misconceptions

All people with autism are really good at maths or art

The literature finds approximately 10% of people diagnosed with autism as having a “savant” skill in a specific area, often music, art or maths, although it could be any area.

People with autism do not have emotions

People with autism often have difficulty understanding their own and other people’s feelings, but they do feel a full range of emotions.

Children with autism won’t listen in class

Autism is a disorder, not a choice, and children with autism do not choose to be disruptive.

People with autism don’t like change

Some people with autism like routine and dislike change, but for most (as with any of us) it depends on the change – a change to more treats is good in almost everyone’s book.

Children with autism do not like hugs or are not affectionate

While some children with autism seem to be sensitive to some sensory experiences, most enjoy tickles, hugs, and rough and tumble as much as the next child.

People with autism are aggressive

Aggression is not a characteristic of autism. If it is not addressed, a difficulty understanding and communicating with the world will be frustrating, and this could lead to problem behaviours.