The Harm of Misleading Claims About ‘Autism Reversal’ from The Telegraph
TW* Mention of ABA, Hans Asperger, historical Autistic trauma
A recent article from prominent newspaper The Telegraph, claims that severe autism can be reversed, based on a so-called 'ground breaking study'. This narrative is not only scientifically inaccurate but also profoundly harmful to the autistic community, most especially the children these ‘scientific studies’ are conducted on.
"Autism can be reversed"
Why does this headline exist in The Telegraph when research shows that Autism is a Neurodevelopmental condition that is present from birth and continues throughout one's life?
Important things to note about this report that The Telegraph has published an article on:
Institutional Review Board StatementThis case report did not require ethical approval. Since there were fewer than three individuals in this report, this is not considered a systematic investigation designed to contribute to generalizable knowledge. As such, this work is not considered to be human subject research. The full report can be viewed here.
What does this mean?
This report is not considered research, received no peer review and did not receive ethical approval. Unethical methods may have been used that would have otherwise been rejected. The report confirms the use of ABA which is considered unethical by multiple institutions. A lack of control group and only 2 participants, especially of those at an age where they can not consent for themselves or even verbally express their wishes, should be taken into account. It raises questions on the ethical stance that The Telegram has taken to report on this.
Promoting the idea that autism can be "reversed" fosters dangerous misconceptions. Historically, attempts to "cure" autism have led to harmful and traumatic treatments, often inflicted on vulnerable children. These interventions, driven by a misguided belief in the possibility of reversal, have caused lasting psychological and physical damage to autistic children.
One notorious example is Hans Asperger, whose research during the Nazi era involved severe and inhumane treatments on autistic children. Asperger's name, once used to describe a subtype of autism, is now largely discredited due to his unethical practices and alignment with Nazi ideology and has since been removed from reputable diagnostic tools. Later, ABA was introduced and advertised as an ethical approach to ' Autistic therapy'. It has since been considered unethical by many organisations and charities.
Misleading articles like the one in question perpetuate the stigma that autistic individuals are broken and in need of fixing. This perspective undermines the neurodiversity movement, which emphasizes that autism is a natural variation of human experience, not a disease to be cured. In the article, the descriptive words used towards the twin girls imply they were broken to begin with, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and stigmas.
The study preys upon parents who are desperately searching for solutions to help their children who are in need of support and additional care needs. Instead of teaching parents how to nurture their children and prepare them with ways to express themselves and adapt their lives to suite their needs, they push the idea that the children are broken and need extensive unethical ‘therapies’ to change them. Mould them to fit society because society deems their needs unacceptable.
What has likely happened in this study, based on similar studies in the past and as mention in their report, is that the children’s behaviours were suppressed (using ABA techniques) rather than their autism being "reversed"—a feat that is impossible. This suppression can force children to act in ways that go against their natural inclinations, causing significant harm. Studies have shown that such suppression can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and other long-term psychological issues.
Dr D’Adamo (study author from the University of Maryland) said himself “Symptoms that could return might be more along the lines of things like anxiety, gastrointestinal issues, sensory issues, but not necessarily the behavioural aspects of autism.”
This seems like a clear-cut way to avoid accountability for the inevitable trauma and physiological damage these studies have proven to produce. Forcing children to make eye contact, cease stimming and to act a certain way does not ‘reverse’ their autism.
For instance, research has indicated that behavioural interventions like ABA (Applied Behaviour Analysis) can cause trauma in autistic children when used to enforce conformity to neurotypical standards rather than supporting the child’s natural development. An document from the National Autistic Society discusses the potential harms of such practices here and the history of ABA here.
Moreover, these claims divert attention and resources from more pressing needs, such as support services, accommodations, and research into improving the quality of life for autistic individuals. A much needed area for researchers attention that thousands of Autistic Adults and children are actually asking for. Instead of pursuing mythical cures, efforts should be focused on fostering acceptance, understanding, and support for autistic people.
It is crucial for media outlets to recognize their responsibility in shaping public perception and to ensure their reporting is based on robust, ethical science. Sensationalized claims not only mislead the public but also contribute to a culture of discrimination and harm against autistic individuals. We must advocate for accurate, respectful representation of autism in all media to promote a more inclusive and supportive society.
This article has caused a spark of outcries from reputable researchers and members of our community.
Autism Advocate Carla Ruiz Martínez shared in a linkedIn Post
Content Creator, Speaker & Advocate Charlie Kiley shared to LinkedIn
Founder and Chairperson of Neurodiversity in Business charity Dan Harris Shared with his network on LinkedIn
For further reading, refer to the original article here. To make a true positive impact, we encourage you to file a complain against their article here.
