Autism was formally recognized as a disorder during the 1940's, but we still have many unanswered questions, (Friend, M., 2006). Caucasians usually believe the cause of Autism is genetic or environmental. There are some Navajos that believe that their child's Autism is the fault of the parents or a result of witchcraft, (Warikoo, N., et. al., 2009). Some Latino mothers who have immigrated to the United States from Puerto Rico and Mexico report that older generations still believe that Autism or other developmental disabilities are punishments for the sins of the parents. As for South Asian families, they may not refer their children for services, especially if their child is a girl, because they are afraid that they may not be able to arrange a marriage for their child in the future, (Dyches, T., Wilder, L., Sudweeks, R., Obiakor, F., & Algozzine, B., 2004). There has also been evidence of African-American families who take advantage of services provided by professional organizations less frequently because they do not want their children to be part of the stigma associated with Autism, (Dyches, T., Wilder, L., Sudweeks, R., Obiakor, F., & Algozzine, B., 2004). With all of these fears and beliefs it is hard to say how many kids truly have the disorder. The fears also make it difficult for teachers to bring up problems to parents because the information could either be ignored or might even infuriate a parent.
Although there are many cultures who may deny the fact that their children are Autistic, there are other cultures who feel and act differently towards their children with Autism. Some young Latino mothers accept the child as a blessing and a gift from God. They feel that they have been given a challenge with their child with Autism and they are to use the "challenge " to become a better person, (Hernandez, D. J., et. al., 2009). African-American families whose religions strongly influence their family beliefs look at a child having a disability as a positive attribute.
