World Autism Day: Top 7 Misconceptions Every Nigerian Should Know

Autism is often misunderstood, leading to some incorrect beliefs about people with this condition. Some people mistakenly think autistic children are “imbe” or mentally unstable. However, autism isn’t madness or foolishness.

Autism affects how people think, communicate, and interact. What some might call “bad behavior” is usually because of autism, not poor upbringing.

Here are seven wrong ideas about autism that need to be corrected:

Calling Them ‘Imbeciles’ 

It’s wrong and hurtful to call autistic individuals “imbe” or “dull.” Being autistic doesn’t mean someone is not smart. Many people with autism are very good at things like music, art, math, or remembering things. It’s important to see their true abilities.

Saying It’s Because of Spirits 

Autism is not a curse or caused by spirits. It’s a medical condition that affects the brain. Trying to fix it with spiritual healing like deliverance doesn’t work. It’s better to get help from doctors who know about autism.

Thinking They Can’t Learn 

People with autism can learn, but they might learn differently. Some might have trouble speaking or paying attention, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be taught. They just need patience, the right way of teaching, and support.

Blaming Vaccines 

Some people in Nigeria think vaccines cause autism, but this is not true. Doctors and scientists all over the world have shown that vaccines do not cause autism.

Expecting Them to Just Get Better 

You can’t expect someone with autism to just “snap out of it.” Telling them to “stop acting like that” won’t help. Sometimes what seems like stubbornness or rudeness is actually their way of dealing with confusion or being upset. Accepting them and supporting them is important.

Seeing Them as Burdens 

Some parents hide their autistic children because they are embarrassed or afraid of what others will think. This is harmful. Every child deserves love, care, and to feel included, no matter how different they are. Autism is just a different way of experiencing the world.

Thinking They Don’t Feel Emotions 

It’s not true that autistic people don’t feel pain or emotions. They might feel very deeply but show it in different ways. They need understanding and empathy, not pity.

Using Wrong Words 

The words we use to talk about autistic people are important. Avoid calling someone “abnormal,” “not okay,” or “spoilt.” The right term to use is Autism Spectrum Disorder. Using the right words is a way to show respect.