Autism has become one of the most discussed, and most misunderstood, topics among parents today. Social media is filled with short videos and checklists claiming to help you “spot autism in 20 seconds.” Educators and pediatricians are seeing more parents wondering if their child might be on the spectrum. And mental health professionals are working hard to keep up with both the real concerns and the overwhelming amount of misinformation circulating online.
In the first episode of his new podcast, Dr. B & Friends, Dr Anthony Benigno of AB Psych Consulting and co-host Jordan break down what autism actually is, what it isn’t and why accurate information matters more than ever. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or mental health care provider, understanding the difference between online myths and clinical reality can make all the difference for a child’s development.
Below is a deeper look at what was shared in Episode 1 — and why it’s essential listening for anyone who works with or loves a child.
Autism isn’t one behavior – it’s a whole picture
One of the most common reasons parents start suspecting Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is poor or inconsistent eye contact. While this can be a red flag, Dr. B emphasizes that it is never enough to diagnose autism. Children may avoid eye contact for many reasons including shyness, temperament, developmental stage, or cultural norms.
Autism isn’t defined by a single trait. It is defined by patterns of behavior across multiple areas. And importantly, these behaviors must significantly interfere with daily life – at home, school, or in social environments. That’s why the ‘S’ in Autism Spectrum Disorder matters: spectrum. Many people show traits, but traits alone do not equal a disorder. If you’ve ever found yourself worrying because of something you saw online, Episode 1 brings a refreshing and much-needed dose of clarity.
Understanding the Autism Spectrum: More than labels
Before the DSM-5, autism was labeled in separate categories such as Autistic Disorder and Asperger’s Disorder. Today, the diagnostic manual recognizes that autism exists on a wide spectrum, with children showing different combinations and levels of symptoms.
This shift helps professionals evaluate each child more accurately, but it can also make things more confusing for parents. You may see your child in parts of the spectrum but not in others.
That’s exactly why a professional evaluation is so important: the spectrum is broad and no two children look exactly the same.
What clinicians actually look for (The 7 DSM-5 Criteria)
To diagnose autism accurately, clinicians assess seven major symptoms across two categories:
1. Social communication differences
Examples include:
- Difficulty carrying a two-way conversation
- Limited facial expressions or gestures
- Challenges understanding social cues
- Reduced sharing of interests
- Difficulty initiating or maintaining interactions
2. Restricted or repetitive behaviors
Examples include:
- Hand-flapping or toe-walking
- Lining up toys, shoes or household items
- Intense focus on specific objects
- Sensory sensitivities (covering ears, avoiding textures, etc.)
- Rigid routines or repetitive play
It’s not about whether a child occasionally does these things, many children do. It’s about frequency, context, impact and how these traits fit together.
Dr. B explains each of these in detail on the podcast and provides real examples from families he’s worked with. These examples help listeners understand what’s typical and what warrants further evaluation.
Culture matters: Why one behavior may mean something different in another family
An incredibly important but often overlooked part of any autism evaluation is cultural context.
For example:
- In some cultures, direct eye contact with adults is considered disrespectful.
- Some families encourage close physical proximity, while others value personal space.
- Communication styles vary drastically across communities.
If a mental health practitioner doesn’t consider culture, a child may be misdiagnosed or completely missed.
Dr. B emphasizes that failing to account for cultural norms would be irresponsible. Autism must be identified within the context of a child’s community and upbringing, not in isolation.
Accurate diagnosis matters more than a quick label
Parents often come in wanting answers immediately, especially if they’ve been researching symptoms online. Dr. B acknowledges this pressure but warns that:
A quick or inaccurate diagnosis can send a family down the wrong path, wasting precious time and delaying real help.
This is one of the most valuable takeaways from Episode 1.
A correct diagnosis:
- Ensures a child receives the right interventions
- Helps families manage expectations
- Reduces frustration and confusion
- Sets a realistic foundation for growth
A rushed diagnosis, on the other hand, can result in:
- Wrong therapies
- Misplaced expectations
- Delayed access to appropriate services
- Emotional stress for the entire family
The goal is not just to diagnose, but to diagnose well.
The waitlist crisis: Why families are waiting months or years
One of the most frustrating realities for families is the long waitlist for autism evaluations.
In some states, families wait over a year just to get assessed. After that, they wait again for a written report, and then wait again for services.
These delays can hold a child back during critical developmental windows. Dr. B and his team are actively working to create faster yet more accurate diagnostic tools to help families avoid long delays and get the support they need sooner.
Free Pre-Assessment Questionnaire for Parents
To support families who are unsure where to start, Dr. B has created a free online assessment questionnaire.
This allows parents to reflect on their child’s behavior through guided questions and helps them decide whether to pursue a professional evaluation.
This tool:
- Breaks down common behaviors
- Helps identify areas of concern
- Directs parents to appropriate next steps
- Reduces the confusion caused by generic online content
You can hear Dr. B discuss how the tool works and why he created it in the first episode of the podcast. Participate in the Pre-Assessment Questionnaire.
Beyond the diagnosis: Supporting families emotionally and practically
For many families, receiving an autism diagnosis can feel like a form of grief.
Not because something is “wrong” with their child, but because parents need to adjust expectations they carried for their child’s future.
Dr. B talks about how parents often lose the version of the future they imagined and how the real journey, the journey with the child in front of them, can still be full of joy, growth and connection.
To support families through this process, Dr. B has developing an eBook designed to:
- Help parents process emotions
- Understand their child’s needs
- Foster connection between siblings
- Create supportive home environments
Mental health providers and educators will also find this resource helpful in guiding families through early stages after diagnosis. Download the eBook.
A whole-family adjustment – For the child, not because of them
One of the most powerful reflections in Episode 1 is this: Family adjustments aren’t made because of the child, they’re made for the child.
Autism affects the entire family system. Parenting shifts. Siblings adapt. Routines change. However, with the right knowledge, support and mindset, these changes help children thrive – not just survive.
This podcast episode encourages every adult in a child’s life to approach autism with compassion, curiosity, and accurate information.
Takeaway thoughts
Autism is not a simple checklist. It’s a complex neurodevelopmental condition influenced by behavior, communication, culture and context. This is why accurate diagnosis and high-quality information matter.
By learning, listening, and supporting one another, we can help children on the spectrum and their families, not just manage, but truly thrive.
If you’re a parent wanting clarity, an educator seeking understanding, or a professional dedicated to accuracy, make sure to tune in to Dr. B & Friends. Each episode brings deeper insights and real tools to support the children and families we serve.
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