What is autism?

If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological developmental disorder that affects how a person communicates with and relates to, other people. It also affects how one makes sense of the world around them. As its name states, autism is a spectrum disorder; meaning, its symptoms vary greatly from person to person. In addition to varying symptoms, those with autism also experience different levels of severity. This means that no two individuals with autism are alike.

Myths About Autism

• Individuals with autism don’t want friends
• Autism is an intellectual disability
• Autism is the result of bad parenting
• Children with autism aren’t affectionate
• Ritualistic behavior should be stopped
• Individuals with autism don’t have a sense of humor
• Individuals with autism can’t feel emotions
• Individuals with autism can’t have romantic relationships
• Individuals with autism can’t be independent & successful
• There is an autism epidemic