What is Autism?
Our understanding and discussions about Autism are always evolving. In our fifty years, we’ve learned more about Autism by listening to different perspectives and taking our lead from people with lived experience. We understand that Autism is varied and complex. The conversations we have and the language we use strive to reflect this, becoming more inclusive and respectful of the different ways people experience Autism.
“I don’t know what life is like without Autism. I know nothing different. The way I was treated is what made me struggle in school, not my autism.”
Colin, Autism Advocate
“Autism makes me more empathetic towards people. My experiences and my struggles make me more accepting of others’ differences.”
Andrew, Autism Advocacy Committee
“Autism means that my brain works a little differently than most and that sometimes it may take me a little longer, but we all arrive at the same place. Autism is an invisible disability, which means that you can’t see it just by looking at me. Each person with Autism is a little different than the next, so no two people are the same.”
Elliot, Autism Advisory Committee
Autism is a lifelong developmental disorder that affects the way people interact and communicate with those around them.
The clinical definition of Autism, often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in communication, social interaction, and behaviour. These differences can manifest in various ways, ranging from challenges in understanding social cues and norms to sensory sensitivities and repetitive behaviours. Importantly, Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning that it presents differently in each individual. While some Autistic people may have significant support needs and difficulties with daily living skills, they may also excel in other areas such as mathematics, music, or visual arts.
At its core, Autism is not a singular experience but rather a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. It affects how people process information and interact with the world around them. While some common traits like difficulty with eye contact or a preference for routine may be observed, it’s crucial to recognize the diversity within the Autism spectrum.
At Kerry’s Place, we recognize that each Autistic person has their own strengths, challenges, and ways of experiencing the world. We work with the clinical definition but also strive to expand our shared understanding of Autism beyond deficiency-based terms like “disorder,” acknowledging that every Autistic person also has unique strengths and abilities.
Person-first or Identity-first Language?
At Kerry’s Place, we respect the language choices of people with lived experience. For example, some people may identify as a “person with Autism” (person-first language) or prefer to identify as an “Autistic person” (identity-first language).
As an organization, we use identity-first language in our broad communications because that’s what many in our community prefer. But when interacting one-on-one, we always take our language lead from the individual and match their preference of either person-first or identity-first language.
Words matter, and we’ll always take our cue from you.
Autism Myth Busters
These busted myths are brought to you by our Autism Advisory Committee
Myth
Fact
Myth
Autistic people can’t feel love or empathy
Fact
Autistic people can actually be more empathetic
Myth
You can always tell when someone is Autistic.
Fact
You can’t always tell. There are varying degrees of strengths and challenges with Autism. Autism can be an invisible disability.
Myth
There is a cure for Autism.
Fact
Autism is a lifelong disorder. People do not grow out of it. There are many strategies to mitigate the social impact of Autism, however, there is no cure.
Myth
Autism only affects children.
Fact
Autism is lifelong and affects both children and adults.
Myth
Poor parenting causes Autism.
Fact
There is no one cause for Autism. There is no evidence that parenting styles have an effect on an Autism diagnosis.
Myth
All Autistic people avoid eye contact and spin or rock.
Fact
Autistic people are diverse. Some do and can make eye contact. Not all Autistic people spin or rock, either.
Myth
If you’ve met one Autistic person, you’ve met them all.
Fact
All Autistic people are unique in their strengths or needs. If you have met one Autistic person, you’ve done just that. You’ve met one Autistic person.
Myth
Autistic people are aggressive.
Fact
Aggression is not a symptom of Autism. It is a symptom of frustration or a reaction to the environment. Coping skills and communication skills can be used to mitigate aggression.
Myth
Autistic people struggle to make friends.
Fact
While making friends can be difficult for some, not all folks on the spectrum have trouble making social connections.
Myth
Autism only affects boys.
Fact
Autism affects both boys and girls. Girls are often undiagnosed or diagnosed a lot later in life.
Myth
All Autistic people require the same type of supports and services.
Fact
Every person is different, and different approaches may work with different people. Patience, kindness, and acceptance are always good places to start.
Myth
There is a small window of opportunity (ages 0-5) for intervention and skill development.
Fact
Skill development is a lifelong process; many skills can be learned later in adulthood. Not all skills need to be learned at the same time. It is better to learn late than never!
