Autism is often misunderstood, shaped by stereotypes rather than real experiences. Many autistic individuals and their families wish the world knew that autism is not a “one-size-fits-all” condition. Some people on the spectrum are nonverbal, while others are highly articulate; some thrive in structured environments, while others need flexibility. Autism is not something that needs to be “fixed”—it is simply a different way of experiencing the world.
One of the biggest misconceptions is that autistic people lack emotions or empathy. In reality, many feel deeply but express emotions in ways that may not be immediately recognizable. A mother of an autistic child shared how her son, though unable to say “I love you,” expresses his affection by gently placing his favorite toy in her hand. Another autistic adult described the challenge of navigating social expectations, saying, “I care deeply about people, but small talk and eye contact feel overwhelming.”
Families of autistic individuals also wish for more understanding and support from society. Many parents face judgment when their child experiences sensory overload in public, mistaken for a tantrum rather than a genuine struggle. Schools and workplaces still have a long way to go in accommodating neurodiverse needs. What autistic individuals and their loved ones truly want is not pity, but acceptance and inclusion—a world where differences are respected rather than seen as limitations.
Kanishka