In recent years, our understanding of autism has grown. Yet, despite this progress, many autistic individuals—especially teens—continue to face negative stigmas and outdated assumptions (Turnock & Langley, 2023). Adolescence is already a time of major change and self-discovery, and for autistic teens, navigating this stage can be even more complex. Unfortunately, much of the conversation around autism remains centered on early childhood (e.g., Sandbank et al., 2023), leaving teens underrepresented and underserved.
This article aims to help parents and caregivers recognize the stigmas autistic teens face and reframe their thinking to focus on their teens’ strengths rather than limitations. To begin reframing our approach, it’s essential to first examine the roots of stigma and how common misconceptions about autism continue to shape the adolescent experience.
Understanding Autism-Related Stigmas
Autism is often misunderstood. As a result, inaccurate beliefs can take hold—especially during adolescence, when social differences become more noticeable. One common misconception is that autistic individuals can’t form deep or meaningful relationships. Yes, autistic teens may connect differently, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t interested in or capable of connection. Another stereotype is that all autistic individuals have intellectual disabilities. While some may have intellectual challenges, many autistic teens have average or above-average intelligence. Failing to recognize this can lower expectations and limit opportunities. Finally, there’s a persistent idea that autism is something that needs to be “fixed.” This mindset can be incredibly harmful. Autism isn’t a flaw—it’s a different way of experiencing the world. When we shift our thinking from “cure” to “support,” we make space for autistic teens to thrive as their authentic selves.
These pervasive stigmas not only shape others’ attitudes—they also influence where attention and resources are directed. As a result, autistic teens often find themselves overlooked in both research and practice.
Why Autistic Teens Are Overlooked
Early intervention is important—but it’s not the whole story. Most research and resources focus on autism in early childhood (Sandbank et al., 2023), leaving teens without the same level of understanding or support. Yet adolescence is a critical period. Autistic teens, like all teens, are figuring out who they are, navigating complex social environments, and seeking greater independence. But they often do so while also managing sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and the pressure to “fit in.”
Because of the research gap, many teens don’t receive support tailored to their age group. This can lead to frustration, confusion, and even mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. We can do better, we must do better, starting with acknowledging that autistic teens have unique needs, strengths, and potential. But the consequences of this gap are not abstract—they manifest in personal ways for autistic teens. To understand the urgency of change, we must consider how stigma directly impacts their daily lives.
How Stigma Impacts Autistic Teens
The effects of stigma during the teen years are multifaceted. Below are several ways that stigmatizing beliefs can harm autistic teens:
- Social Struggles and Isolation. Peer relationships become more important during the teen years; however, autistic teens may face teasing, exclusion, or misunderstandings. When society labels them as “awkward” or “different,” it can increase social anxiety and reinforce a sense of loneliness.
- Low Self-Esteem. Negative messages about autism can affect a teen’s self-image. If teens hear—directly or indirectly—that something is “wrong” with them, they may begin to believe it. This can lead to self-doubt and a reluctance to take risks or ask for support.
- Barriers to Self-Advocacy. As teens gain independence, self-advocacy becomes crucial. But, stigma can make autistic teens hesitant to speak up about their needs. They may fear judgment or feel ashamed, leading them to avoid seeking help or accommodations.
- Masking and Burnout. To avoid standing out, many autistic teens learn to “mask” their traits—hiding behaviors such as stimming or forcing themselves to act in ways that feel unnatural. While this may reduce immediate social friction, it often leads to exhaustion, stress, and a diminished sense of self.
Given these challenges, it’s crucial to offer teens an alternative narrative—one grounded not in correction or conformity but in affirmation (Mottron, 2017; Rush, 2025). Reframing autism through a strengths-based lens can be a powerful antidote to the damage stigma causes.
A Shift in Perspective: Focusing on Strengths
Parents and caregivers play a powerful role in shaping how autistic teens see themselves (Mottron, 2017). By focusing on strengths instead of deficits, families help teens feel more confident and supported. Autism brings unique perspectives and talents—like attention to detail, creativity, and specialized interests. When we recognize and nurture these traits, we not only help teens build self-esteem, but we also challenge the stigma that autism is only about limitations. This positive shift starts at home, where parents model acceptance, celebrate differences, and create space for teens to grow into their identities without pressure to conform.
While embracing a strength-based mindset is vital, putting it into practice can sometimes feel daunting. The following strategies offer concrete ways families can turn a strengths-based approach into everyday support.
How Parents Can Support Their Autistic Teens
- Celebrate Unique Traits. Whether it’s a passion for science, an artistic talent, or an impressive memory, help your teen see what makes them shine. When strengths are acknowledged, confidence grows.
- Support Social Confidence. Rather than pushing your teen to “fit in,” help them find environments where they feel comfortable being themselves—such as clubs, online communities, or special interest groups.
- Encourage Self-Advocacy. Teach your teen to speak up about what they need, whether it’s a quiet space to take a break or extra time on assignments. Practice role-playing scenarios and celebrate their efforts to advocate for themselves.
- Promote Self-Acceptance Over Masking. Let your teen know it’s okay to be different. Masking may help them get by, but in the long term, being authentic is healthier and more sustainable. Encourage your autistic teen to take pride in who they are.
- Model and Advocate. Speak up when you see misunderstandings or misinformation about autism. The more we normalize neurodiversity, the more inclusive and accepting our communities become—for everyone.
When these efforts come together, they not only support autistic teens—they lay the groundwork for a more compassionate society. This leads us to a final reflection on what it truly means to help autistic teens thrive.
Final Thoughts
Adolescence is a time of growth and discovery. For autistic teens, it can also be a time of unique challenge. But when we focus on what’s possible instead of what’s “wrong,” we help shift the narrative. Parents and caregivers who embrace a strengths-based approach give their teens a powerful foundation—the knowledge that they are capable, worthy, and valued just as they are.
By pushing past stigma and focusing on support, we create a world where autistic teens not only successfully navigate adolescence—but thrive in it.
Heidi Hillman, PhD, BCBA-D, LMHC, is an autistic researcher and professor at Eastern Washington University. For more information, please contact Heidi Hillman at hhillman@ewu.edu.
References
Mottron, L. (2017, April 20). A strength-focused approach to autism. Harvard Health Blog.
Rush, B. (2025, April 30). 6 ways to help your autistic teen see their strengths. Autism Parenting Magazine.
Sandbank, M., Bottema-Beutel, K., Crowley LaPoint, S., Feldman, J. I., Barrett, D. J., Caldwell, N., Dunham, K., Crank, J., Albarran, S., & Woynaroski, T. (2023). Autism intervention meta-analysis of early childhood studies (Project AIM): Updated systematic review and secondary analysis. BMJ, 383, e076733. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2023-076733
Turnock, A., & Langley, K. (2023). Understanding stigma in autism: A narrative review and theoretical model. Bioethics, 37(1), 45–59. https://doi.org/10.1111/bioe.13019
