There has always been myths of autism abounding. The thought of autism is so very difficult to comprehend that the condition is often characterized by false half-truths and misplaced hope.

You will most likely find that autism is not what you think!

Here are 5 of the most harmful myths about autism.

1. Autism is caused by bad parenting - This is completely false. This myth has been around since the 1950s. It was the modern thought in the 1950s and 1960s that autism was caused by a cold and distant mother.

It is widely accepted now that autism is not a psychological disorder but is biological in origin.

2. Children with autism cannot talk - This is true for some but not for others my oldest son does not talk, however, my younger son does have enough language that he gets most of his thoughts and needs across.

Most other children develop some sort of communication, such as using sign language, computers or pictures (pic symbols).

3. Children with autism cannot show affection - out of all the myths of autism, this myth is probably one of the most devastating myths for families.

It is very difficult for some autistic children to express affection in conventional ways. This is because these children do not process sensory stimulation normally. With my own 2 boys I find that they have become more affectionate as they have grown older and matured. My 15 year old son often now initiates hugs and kisses.

4. Inside a child with autism is a genius - Many people have asked my husband or myself this question many times over the years. We have always answered them truthfully, that no, neither one of our boys are considered to be geniuses.

Children with autism show a full range of IQ scores. The fact is, only a very tiny number of individuals with autism have extremely high IQs.

5. Autism is rare - This is another false myth. The stats at this time in 2007 is that autism affects 1 in every 166 children today. In the last 10 years autism has exploded into epidemic proportions.

Unfortunately, many myths have cropped up because the basic understanding of the word autism just has not kept up with the new medical research shared today.

However, in spite of all these myths of Autism. It is shown that individuals with autism can and do lead happy productive lives when there are supports and therapies provided for them.