In 2022, there were an estimated 290,000 people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in Australia.
This is a 41.8% increase in diagnoses compared to the 205,200 in 2018.
From this increase in diagnoses—notably, including individuals who get their diagnoses as adults—we can safely say that awareness about autism on the global scale has improved in recent years.
Sadly, however, there are still plenty of misconceptions that remain rampant.
These misconceptions shouldn’t be ignored. They can lead to stigma, make daily life more challenging for people on the spectrum, and prevent others from understanding the best ways to offer support.
Let’s explore some of the most common myths about autism and uncover the truths behind them.
Perhaps owing to the limited representation of autism in mainstream media—which, over the years, has included harmful stereotypes—there are still many who think that autism presents in a single, recognisable way.
The reality is, there is a wide and diverse range of presentations that autism can have; that’s why it’s called a spectrum.
Some people may require significant daily support with communication, mobility, or personal care. Others may live independently, hold steady jobs, and pursue advanced education, only struggling with certain aspects of sensory processing or social interaction.
In other words, autistic people are as diverse and individual as neurotypical people; we shouldn’t expect someone to look or act a certain way just because we know them to be on the autism spectrum.
A widespread misconception is that autism is a type of mental illness. In reality, autism is not a mental health disorder — it is a neurodevelopmental condition. This means it relates to differences in how the brain develops and processes information, particularly in areas such as communication, social interaction, and sensory experiences.
While people on the spectrum may also experience mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression — just like anyone else — autism itself is not a mental illness.
This misconception can be harmful because it implies that autism, like mental illness, is something “wrong”, or something that needs to be cured.
People with autism do not need to be cured; depending on their individual struggles, they may need support in certain aspects of life because their minds work a little differently to the neurotypical norms that society is structured around.
Decades ago, there was a harmful theory that “cold” or unloving parents — sometimes referred to as “refrigerator mothers” — were responsible for autism. This has long been debunked by scientific research. Parenting style does not cause autism.
Instead, studies show that autism is linked to differences in brain development. Both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role, but the exact causes have yet to be determined.
Blaming parents not only adds unnecessary guilt and stress, but also distracts from the real conversation: how we can best support individuals with autism and their families.
One of the most damaging stereotypes is that individuals on the spectrum do not feel empathy. This is simply not true.
This misconception may be because many autistic people struggle with social cues (such as subtleties in body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice) and therefore find it hard to express sympathy and concern the way neurotypical people might expect.
The truth is, many autistic people experience emotions very deeply and can feel strong compassion for others.
Recognising these differences helps shift the perspective from “they don’t care” to “they care in their own way.”
World champion powerlifter Lya Bavoil is autistic and is an outspoken advocate who aims to challenge stereotypes about autism. (Source: Instagram.com/lya_powerlift)
World champion powerlifter Lya Bavoil is autistic and is an outspoken advocate who aims to challenge stereotypes about autism. (Source: Instagram.com/lya_powerlift)
One of the worst misconceptions about autism is that children with autism cannot go on to lead independent lives and become successful in their careers and other endeavours.
This harmful myth leads some people to see autistic children and people as “less than.”
But as we mentioned earlier, autism is a diverse spectrum; each autistic person will have their own strengths and weaknesses and therefore their own paths towards a fulfilling life, in the same way that neurotypical people do.
One autistic person may struggle with speech but be a gifted and dedicated artist. Another may have troubles with socialisation but have an intelligence and fastidiousness that lends itself to a successful career in science.
The key is to understand each person as an individual, recognise their potential and interests, and provide support and opportunities whenever possible.
And when you think about it, that’s a solid recipe for helping anyone succeed, whether they’re autistic or neurotypical.
Misconceptions about autism aren’t just harmless misunderstandings. They can shape how people with autism are treated in schools, workplaces, healthcare settings, and the wider community. Believing these myths can lead to exclusion, unfair expectations, and missed opportunities.
By addressing these misconceptions, we create an environment where people with autism are seen and understood as individuals. This is what it means to put the person before the condition.
Our team of occupational therapists are here to help you and your child navigate the complex and varied challenges that autism spectrum disorder can present.
Call 02 8808 4000 and our team will be happy to answer your questions!