The diagnosis of “autism” was first defined by Leo Kanner in 1943 as “Autism of Early Infancy”. However, there are some misconceptions about the definition of autism.
| FALSE | TRUE |
|---|---|
It is the result of emotional deprivation or emotional stress. It is caused by parental rejection or cold parenting. It is a persistent desire to avoid social contact. It is a mental disorder (mental illness). They are gifted because they have special abilities in some narrow areas. Autism is a temporary condition. | Autism spectrum disorder is thought to have neurological causes. Autism is not related to child-rearing characteristics or socio-economic characteristics of the family. There is evidence that autism spectrum disorder may be hereditary; however, the gene or genes that cause it have not yet been found. Autism is not a mental illness; however, its symptoms may resemble some mental illnesses. Very few individuals (about 10%) diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder have superior characteristics such as very strong memory, musical talent, etc. Autism is not a temporary condition but a lifelong condition. Symptoms may decrease over time but do not disappear completely. |
