Conclusion
It can be difficult to capture the definition of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Rain Man, The Middle, and Atypical raise a lot of questions about the inaccuracies of stereotypical ASD representations including savant syndrome, gender expectations, and higher-functioning, verbal ASD. In reality, there are so many other forms of ASD that are often neglected in popular media leaving audiences to believe that ASD only affects a white, verbal male. So far, even I have not understood all of the nuances of this debate but it is important to acknowledge and address them anyway. Media representations of ASD are very stereotypical, and there are many ways to change this. Content teams can hire people with ASD to help write and direct, as well as help represent different ends of the spectrum. If the actors are going to be neurotypical, TV shows and films need to mold characters based off facts and education to accurately portray ASD to the world. Producers can hire individuals with ASD to play these roles with their own diagnosis, and better represent the ASD community rather than mimic them. It is impossible to holistically represent ASD in one film or TV show, but it is possible to represent multiple types of ASD as well as showcase a wider variety of diagnostic criteria, actors, and writers.
I leave you with this as you watch and consume all types of media with characters with ASD.. Where are the females with ASD? Where are the nonverbal, lower functioning individuals with ASD? Where are the individuals with ASD in relationships, who excel in public speaking, and who can socially thrive in the right environment? Current definitions and representations are highly contested, and there is definitely not a one-size fits all approach to discussing and learning about ASD. This uncertainty is unsettling, but our approach to watching media representations of ASD, asking questions, and being open to new opinions allows us to change the way we spread awareness and talk about ASD.
I leave you with this as you watch and consume all types of media with characters with ASD.. Where are the females with ASD? Where are the nonverbal, lower functioning individuals with ASD? Where are the individuals with ASD in relationships, who excel in public speaking, and who can socially thrive in the right environment? Current definitions and representations are highly contested, and there is definitely not a one-size fits all approach to discussing and learning about ASD. This uncertainty is unsettling, but our approach to watching media representations of ASD, asking questions, and being open to new opinions allows us to change the way we spread awareness and talk about ASD.