It usually starts the same way — a half-glanced reel, a confident voiceover, a claim that sounds just scientific enough to make you pause mid-scroll. This time, it was about bodies. More specifically, a suggestion doing the rounds online that a ‘bigger-looking butt’ could be a hidden sign of autism or ADHD. Absurd to some, unsettling to others, and worrying for anyone already carrying quiet doubts about themselves or their child. Mental health professionals say these viral claims aren’t just wrong, they’re dangerous.
Sophy Mathew, counselling psychologist at Renova Hospitals, Sanathnagar, traces where the confusion may be coming from. According to her, “Physical features like body shape, including claims such as a ‘bigger-looking butt’ being a sign of autism or ADHD, are largely a myth. These claims are not rooted in genetics or fat distribution. Instead, they often stem from a postural pattern known as anterior pelvic tilt. In this condition, the pelvis tilts forward rather than remaining in a neutral position, which increases the inward curve of the lower back. This posture can make the abdomen appear to stick out and the glutes look more prominent, creating what is sometimes casually referred to as a ‘duck butt’. Importantly, anterior pelvic tilt can occur in anyone and is not exclusive to autism or ADHD. Anterior pelvic tilt is observed more frequently in some children with autism or ADHD due to underlying motor and sensory factors than appearance-based traits.”
Dr Praveen S Gopan, consultant psychiatrist at Apollo Hospitals, Secunderabad, is direct when asked about such claims. He shares, “There is absolutely no scientific evidence linking body shape or physical appearance to autism or ADHD. Autism spectrum disorder and ADHD are neurodevelopmental conditions related to how the brain functions, not how the body looks. Such claims are pseudoscientific and risk trivialising serious mental health conditions.”
What actually matters, he explains, rarely shows up in the mirror. “In autism, early signs may include poor eye contact, delayed speech, difficulty with social interaction, repetitive behaviours, and resistance to changes in routine. In ADHD, children often show persistent inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, difficulty following instructions, and problems with emotional regulation. These are frequently dismissed as ‘bad behaviour’ or ‘laziness’, which delays diagnosis,” Dr Praveen adds.
The internet’s habit of flattening nuance only makes things worse. Dr Praveen doesn’t shy away from that concern either. He shares, “Social media often oversimplifies complex psychiatric conditions. This can lead people to wrongly label themselves or their children, causing unnecessary anxiety or, worse, ignoring real symptoms that need professional attention.”
So what should people do when a viral post triggers concern? The answer, Dr Praveen says, is simple. “The first step is not panic or self-diagnosis. If there are genuine concerns, consult a qualified psychiatrist, psychologist or developmental specialist. A proper assessment involves detailed history, behavioural observation and standardised tools not social media checklists,” he concludes.