Autism FAQs: Answers to 6 Common Questions About Autism

Autism FAQ #1: What exactly is autism?

Autism, or also called autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a brain developmental disorder. It can affect verbal and even non-verbal communication, social interaction, and behavior. How, exactly, depends on the individual. Autism usually shows itself in early childhood and lasts throughout a person’s life.

While most individuals are diagnosed in childhood, usually before the age of 8, some do not get diagnosed until their teen or adult years.

Autism FAQ #2: What are common traits of autism?

There is a wide range of symptoms, and a person with autism could have all of them or none of them. Usually, it’s somewhere in between. Common symptoms could be a lack of facial expressions, including reduced or no eye contact; hyper-focused interests; extreme organization and set behaviors; repetition of gestures or sounds; stimming; and indifference to others at times.

Remember that only a professional can officially diagnose a person with autism using specific screening tools, observation, and questions. There is no blood or genetic tests for autism.

Autism FAQ #3: Is Asperger's syndrome the same as autism?

It is now, but it didn’t use to be. Asperger’s syndrome is no longer an official diagnosis. (It changed around 2013, although some people still use that descriptor.) It just typically means that individuals with this diagnosis are on the mild end of the autism spectrum and considered “high functioning,” meaning they can still generally get by in life, go to school or work, drive, marry, etc.

Having mild symptoms with the previously named Asperger’s syndrome, however, can still present a great number of challenges. Communications and emotions (or lack of) an present obstacles for individuals who do not show outward signs of having the disorder.

Autism FAQ #4: Is there a treatment or "cure" for autism?

There is no “cure” for autism, but there are numerous therapies and interventions to help individuals with autism live their best life. Since everyone is so different, these support assists vary by person. They can include speech therapy, behavioral therapy, learning sign language or other adaptive communications tools, occupational therapy, and support throughout the educational years, as needed. Depending on what conditions may also be present, a person with autism may also need medication.

Since autism is considered a lifelong disorder, awareness, understanding and compassion are key components for helping a person on the spectrum to have a happy and fulfilled life.

Autism FAQ #5: What is the "spectrum?"

The “autism spectrum” refers to the very wide range of severity and conditions that affect individuals with autism. Because everyone has different forms and experiences their own uniqueness, it is hard to classify.

A person on the autism spectrum disorder exhibits various strengths, weaknesses, behaviors, challenges, and likes and dislikes, just like every body else.

Autism FAQ #6: Are there famous people with autism?

There are many famous people who are believed to be on the autism spectrum, including Albert Einstein, Dan Aykroyd, Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, Thomas Jefferson, Isaac Newton, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Daryl Hannah, and Tim Burton. Elon Musk announced in May 2021 that he has Asperger’s syndrome while hosting Saturday Night Live.

While these individuals are (or were) acclaimed in their respective fields, it’s important not to stereotype those with autism. Not everyone with Asperger’s syndrome is a genius or will go onto be a millionaire. The disorder affects each person differently and is not a barrier or a pathway for success.

(Disclaimer: Please check with your doctor or therapist about specific medical advice. These Autism FAQs about Autism Spectrum Disorder are based on basic information provided to me and my personal experiences only. Please explore my website for more answers as well.)

Connor McClure

I'm a young adult navigating life with autism. By sharing my experiences and views, I hope to create a better awareness, understanding, and compassion for those on the spectrum. Let's connect!