d reciprocal marriages would perhaps argue with this dismissive myth. (Stehli, 1991). A further myth, which is commonly held by the public, and commonly, portrayed by the media, is the concept of the genius-autism link. Most people with autism have a learning disability and those that dont have specific impairments in some areas of functioning. This does not mean that some individuals are not highly intelligent, but rather that these are the very rare exception rather than the rule. There is often the feeling, among both professionals and family members that there appears to be hidden intelligence among people with autism. It is dangerous to expect too much of individuals. This can please unnecessary pressures on people with autism and can give the family inappropriate hope. People with autism may well be very talented in some respect, as may other individuals, but in terms of intelligence the majority of people with autism have a learning disability, which for many of whom is severe or profound. The fact of the myth is that intelligence in people with autism is basically different from non-autistic people. They may be able to remember long lists of numbers by rote or make speedy calculations, some may be talented artists or musicians but this reflects a presentation of autism, not an indication of a hidden genius trying to come out. It is much fairer to individuals to accept them for what they are rather than to try and make them into something they are not. (Stehli, 1994)ConclusionAutism is still a very mysterious disease but every day people are learning more and more about this mystery. Doctors are finding things that are preventatives and lessening the effects of the disease. There are still many beliefs and myths out there that some people believe but more and more people are becoming educated and recognizing earlier what this disease is about earlier. Many doctors are now looking into a disease that Leo Kanner once looked at all ...
