News from Pediatrics

Understanding Autism: What It Is and What It Isn’t

Wednesday, April 9, 2025

Autism is complex and sometimes misunderstood. Myths and misinformation associated with autism can harm the autism community and perpetuate health disparities. Understanding autism starts with defining what it is—and what it isn’t.

Learn the facts from our experts Suzannah J. Iadarola, PhD, director of the Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities and associate professor of Pediatrics, and Emily Knight, MD, PhD, a clinician scientist in the Departments of Pediatrics, Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, and Neuroscience.

What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental difference that affects how people may perceive, experience, and interact with the world around them

While experiences vary widely, common characteristics include:

• Differences in social interaction and communication.
• Repetitive behaviors and focused interests.
• Sensory differences, including heightened sensitivities to sounds, lights, or textures; intense interest in sensory input; or both.

Is Autism a Mental Illness?

No, autism is not a mental illness—it is not an illness at all. Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference that primarily affects how a person thinks, perceives, and interacts with others.

It is important to know that some people with autism may experience co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. These are separate from autism but are common within the neurodiverse community.