Unproven medical claims and conspiracy theories distract from the more productive conversation that should be taking place about autism. As if this weren’t confusing enough, recent statements from prominent public figures—namely Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr.—have further exacerbated this confusion. As experts make clear, a “disinformation vacuum” has allowed for these claims to proliferate. This perfect storm has ramped up feelings of guilt and blame among parents and led to further misperceptions about autism itself.
Andrew Whitehouse, one of the world’s top autism researchers, tells us what’s at stake. He fears that the lack of clear, evidence-based messaging has created a vacuum where non-evidence-based messaging can flourish. He explains that this makes for a breeding ground where misinformation can thrive. This is particularly evident in discussions about the genetics and etiology of autism.
Historically, misconceptions about autism are not new. In the 1950s, the now-discredited “refrigerator mother” theory blamed cold or unloving parenting as a cause of autism. This theory, though widely debunked for decades now, gives voice to the attraction we have as a society for fast and easy answers to complicated problems.
Currently, public figures like Trump and Kennedy have perpetuated theories linking childhood vaccines to autism, despite overwhelming scientific evidence refuting such claims. Whitehouse argues that these claims have only increased parents’ guilt, leading them to second-guess their parenting choices. Moving Forward agreed with this sentiment, explaining that efforts to legitimize this culpability absent scientific evidence is “shameful.”
“At worst, a total misuse of science.” – Andrew Whitehouse
Kennedy’s promise to find the “cause” of autism by September has made him public enemy number one with the scientific establishment. Given his background as a vaccine skeptic, we should all be very cautious about taking his claims at face value. Meanwhile, research indicates that genetic factors are responsible for up to 80 percent of the likelihood of developing autism, with emerging studies focusing on epigenetics—how environmental factors interact with genetic predispositions.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration in Australia has been unambiguous—in fact, downright categorical. They, along with Australia’s Chief Medical Officer Michael Kidd, are completely opposed to any notion that vaccines cause autism. There is a wealth of evidence from decades of research supporting this rejection. The largest 2024 Swedish study to date reported no association between prenatal paracetamol use and autism or ADHD risk.
Given what we know about paracetamol use Trump’s comments make a bad narrative even worse. He went on to claim, with no supporting evidence, that autism is absent in countries where paracetamol use is minimal. Studies have repeatedly shown that there is no causal relationship between the drug and the development of autism.
Stephen Robson, an expert in the field, stresses the need to recognize that autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder. He pointed out that when there is not a clear understanding, people tend to seek out and fill those gaps with conspiracy theories and other false narratives.
“The conspiracy theorist looks at the gap and sees some mal-intent or something nasty going on,” – Stephen Robson
Robson compared this gap-averse mindset with an academic mindset where gaps are seen as openings for further research. He remarked, “The researcher sees the gap and says, can I find out what it is? I think that’s the fundamental difference.”
Autism largely determines how an individual’s brain develops and functions. This condition results in distinct behavior patterns, as well as notably different ways in which they process sensory information. Autistic advocate Grace Tame reminds us that there is nothing wrong with being autistic, saying, “No one is broken in this story.” She explains that autism is primarily a difference in receiving, processing, and communicating sensory information, which can be disabling based on external factors.
“Whilst we can’t change an autistic person, we can change their environment to better support their needs.” – Grace Tame
Tame’s experiences emphasize the importance of creating positive spaces for autistic people, instead of reinforcing harmful stereotypes. David Tonge, another advocate, referred to the discussions stemming from these unfounded claims as “an insidious line of discussion that is hurtful to mums.”
