Misbeliefs and FASD

The FASD Network of Saskatchewan is sharing some misconceptions about FASD. Help spread awareness by sharing the facts with the people you know!

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder continues to be a disability that is not well-known. Despite being identified as a diagnosis for decades there continues to be contradicting information distributed to the public resulting in associated stigmas and misconceptions.

Through years of service the FASD Network of Saskatchewan has identified several false beliefs about FASD.

• Belief: All people who have FASD have below-average IQ. THIS IS NOT TRUE. Some individuals may have below-average IQ, some have average or above-average IQ. Each individual is affected uniquely.
• Belief: Individuals with FASD will outgrow their difficulties. THIS IS NOT TRUE. FASD is a lifelong disability.
• Belief: The behaviour problems of an individual with FASD happen because of bad parenting. THIS IS NOT TRUE. The primary disabilities that accompany FASD can mean that an individual does not always behave as others expect them to.
• Belief: An individual with FASD has brain damage so there is no point in helping them. THIS IS NOT TRUE. If individuals with FASD are supported through-out their lifetime they can succeed.
• Belief: Individuals with FASD are unmotivated or unwilling to take responsibility for themselves. THIS IS NOT TRUE. Individuals with FASD are not trying to be difficult. There is usually an underlying reason for the behaviour.
• Belief: Mothers know that they could harm their babies by drinking but they don’t care. THIS IS NOT TRUE. Pregnant women do not purposely harm their babies. Some women do not know that they are pregnant right away. Some women are dealing with addictions, trauma, abuse or mental health issues.

Retrieved from:

www.saskfasdnetwork.ca