From vaccines being the root cause, to the idea that autism only affects boys: there is a lot of misinformation floating around about neurodivergence that needs to be brought to light. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) comes with a wide array of unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths. Yet, despite increasing awareness, myths about autism persist, creating unnecessary confusion and stigma. At Monarch House’s Autism Toronto Clinic, we believe understanding is key to fostering acceptance and inclusivity. 

Here we will debunk ten common myths about autism to clear the air and make way for a more informed dialogue about autism Toronto.

1. Myth: Autism Is Caused by Bad Parenting

Parents that have children with neurodivergence have enough on their plate without being further burdened by a stigma that they are at fault. There’s no truth to this outdated belief. Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition influenced by genetics and brain development, not by how a child is raised. Blaming parents, especially mothers, only spreads misinformation and guilt where none belongs.

2. Myth: Vaccines Cause Autism

The idea that vaccines cause autism was one of the most dangerous and irresponsible pieces of misinformation in recent years. This myth has been thoroughly debunked. A single flawed study from the late 1990s is responsible for this claim, but years of global research have shown no link between vaccines and autism. Vaccines protect against dangerous diseases. They are important for our overall health. They don’t cause autism.

3. Myth: Autistic Individuals Lack Empathy

Anyone that says that autistic children are not empathetic has simply not spent enough time around children with neurodivergence. Autistic people may experience and express empathy differently, but that doesn’t mean they don’t care. The confusion stems from the fact that they sometimes struggle to interpret social cues. Despite this, they can feel deeply for others and are incredibly compassionate once they connect.

4. Myth: Autism Only Affects Children

There are many adults that have autism that live fully independent lives. We have programs at Monarch House designed for exactly this reason. Autism doesn’t fade away with age. While children often receive the most attention in diagnosis and support, autism is a lifelong condition. At Monarch House, we emphasize the importance of supporting autistic individuals throughout every stage of life.

5. Myth: Autism Equals Intellectual Disability

There are many co-occurring conditions that happen with autism, from ADHD to social communication disorder, to generalized anxiety. Autism exists on a spectrum, and every individual is unique. Some autistic people have intellectual disabilities, but many have average or above-average intelligence. Some are exceptional thinkers and creators, thriving in areas that align with their interests and strengths.

6. Myth: Nonverbal Means Non-Communicative

All behaviour is communication, by definition. Crying means something, side eye looks mean something, screaming, laughing—everything. All of our actions are a form of communication. Verbal expression is not the only way for a child to get an idea across. Communication takes many forms. Autistic individuals who are nonverbal often use tools like communication devices, sign language, or other visual aids to share their thoughts. At Monarch House, we celebrate all forms of communication as equally valuable.

7. Myth: Autism Needs to Be Cured

At Monarch House we don’t work on changing or re-wiring the brain of a child with autism. Instead we work on coping skills and means of integration. Autism is not a disease. It’s a different way of perceiving and experiencing the world. Instead of searching for a “cure,” our focus is on acceptance, understanding, and providing tools and strategies to help autistic individuals thrive.

8. Myth: Autism Is Rare

If you look in almost any classroom across North America, you will find a child that has neurodivergence or a developmental disability. Autism is far more common than people realize. According to the CDC, one in thirty-six children are diagnosed with autism. Awareness and improved diagnostic tools mean more individuals are recognized and supported earlier than ever before.

9. Myth: All Autistic People Are Geniuses or Savants

Movies like Rain Man have created the myth that all people with autism are also savants. Although there are cases where this is true, it is not necessarily consistent across the board. The idea that every autistic person has extraordinary abilities is a stereotype. While some individuals possess remarkable talents in specific areas, most are regular people with a mix of strengths and challenges, just like everyone else.

10. Myth: Autism Looks the Same for Everyone

Here’s a nice quote to keep in mind when you come across an individual with autism: “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” What it means is that autism manifests uniquely in every individual. What works for one person might not work for another, which is why tailored support, like the kind that we provide at Monarch House, is essential.

At Monarch House, we have an interdisciplinary, professional staff made up of occupational therapists, behavioural therapists, psychotherapists, and speech pathologists. Working together as a team, we strive to provide your child with the best evidence-based practice possible. We do what we can to dismantle some of the misconceptions about autism and replace them with understanding, acceptance, and patience. By addressing these myths, we hope to foster a world where individuals with autism in Toronto are valued, supported, and empowered to shine in their own way. When we let go of stereotypes, we can build stronger, more inclusive communities—one conversation at a time.