The Apparently Autistic Podcast

5 Autism Myths You Need to Stop Believing

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Episode 12 – 5 Autism Myths You Need to Stop Believing

In this episode of Apparently Autistic, we’re setting the record straight on five of the most damaging and persistent myths about autism — myths that still show up in conversations, media, and even professional settings today.

We’re talking about the false claims that autistic people don’t feel empathy, that “everyone is a little autistic,” and that vaccines cause autism (spoiler: they don’t — and never did). We’ll also bust the harmful idea that someone can’t be autistic if they’re verbal, smart, or friendly, and the damaging belief that autistic people “just need more discipline.”

These myths don’t just spread misinformation — they actively hurt autistic people by fueling stigma, misdiagnosis, and mistreatment. In this episode, we’ll break down where these myths come from, why they’re so harmful, and what the real truth is, from the perspective of actually autistic lived experience.

If you’ve ever fallen for these myths — or heard someone else repeat them — this is your chance to learn, unlearn, and share the truth.

💬 Share your thoughts, experiences, or the worst autism myth you’ve heard by messaging us! And don’t forget to leave a review and help spread the word about what autism really is — and isn’t.

References

  • Milton, D. (2012). On the ontological status of autism: The ‘double empathy problem’. Disability & Society, 27(6), 883-887. https://kar.kent.ac.uk/62639/1/Milton%20%282012%29%20-%20The%20Double%20Empathy%20Problem.pdf
  • Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). What is autism? https://autisticadvocacy.org/about-asan/about-autism/
  • National Autistic Society. Is everyone a little autistic? https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/what-is-autism
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Vaccines and autism. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/concerns/autism.html
  • Taylor, L. E., Swerdfeger, A. L., & Eslick, G. D. (2014). Vaccines are not associated with autism: An evidence-based meta-analysis of case-control and cohort studies. Vaccine, 32(29), 3623-3629. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.04.085
  • The Lancet. Retraction—Ileal-lymphoid-nodular hyperplasia, non-specific colitis, and pervasive developmental disorder in children. The Lancet, 375(9713), 445. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(10)60175-4/fulltext
  • Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). Position statement on functioning labels. https://autisticadvocacy.org/about-asan/position-statements/functioning-labels/
  • Autism Level UP. Meltdown vs tantrum. https://autismlevelup.com/meltdown-vs-tantrum
  • Kapp, S. K. (Ed.). (2020). Autistic community and the neurodiversity movement: Stories from the frontline. Palgrave Macmillan.

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    Credits

     

    Executive Producer:

    Keith Holloway

    Co-Executive Producer:

    Bridget Holloway

    Hosts:

    Keith and Bridget Holloway

    Produced & Edited by:

    Keith Holloway

    Theme Music:

    "Paradise Found"
    Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)
    licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0
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    Logo Design:

    Nathan McConnell (Growing up Autie)
    https://www.facebook.com/growingupautie

    A Dispatch Central Production

    © 2025

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    Disclaimers

    This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis or treatment of autism or any related condition.

    The views and experiences shared here are personal and may not reflect those of everyone on the autism spectrum. Autism is a broad and diverse spectrum, and each individual's journey is unique.
    Some episodes may contain discussions of mental health, trauma, or other sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised.
    We aim to create a respectful, inclusive space for autistic individuals, their families, professionals, and allies. If we ever get it wrong, we welcome thoughtful feedback.

    This podcast may feature sponsored content or affiliate links, which will be disclosed during the episode.

     

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    The Apparently Autistic PodcastBy Keith and Bridget Holloway