Autism in Popular Culture

In recent years, the portrayal of autism has become more nuanced, with characters in TV shows and films offering more realistic depictions of the condition.

Autism has gained increasing visibility in popular culture, with more films, TV shows, and media featuring characters on the autism spectrum. This growth in representation is a positive step toward raising awareness, but it often comes with challenges, including stereotypes and misunderstandings. As autism continues to be explored in mainstream media, it's crucial to reflect on how these portrayals influence public perception—and how social media platforms, like TikTok, are reshaping the conversation around autism.

Early Depictions: Breaking Ground, Reinforcing Stereotypes

One of the first mainstream portrayals of autism was the character Raymond Babbitt in the 1988 film Rain Man. While the film increased awareness, it also reinforced the stereotype that all individuals with autism possess extraordinary abilities—an inaccurate portrayal that fails to capture the wide diversity of the autism spectrum. Early representations like this often focused on a limited view of autism, highlighting exceptional skills but neglecting the varied experiences of those on the spectrum.

Evolving Representation

In recent years, the portrayal of autism has become more nuanced, with characters in TV shows and films offering more realistic depictions of the condition.

Sam Gardner in Atypical offers a glimpse into the life of a high-functioning autistic teenager, addressing both the challenges and everyday experiences of living with autism.
Julia on Sesame Street provides young audiences with an approachable, positive character who normalises neurodiversity for young audiences in an accessible way.
Dr. Shaun Murphy in The Good Doctor showcases the unique talents and obstacles faced by a surgeon with autism, although the show continues to fuel the "autistic genius" stereotype.

Challenges and Misconceptions

Despite progress, many portrayals still rely on stereotypes, such as the idea of the "autistic genius". Autism is a spectrum, with individuals experiencing a wide range of traits, challenges, and abilities. Over-reliance on certain tropes can obscure the true diversity of the condition and create unrealistic expectations.

Authenticity is another concern. Historically, many autistic characters have been portrayed by neurotypical actors, which can lead to an incomplete or inaccurate portrayal. However, there has been a growing push for more representation from individuals with autism both in front of and behind the camera.

The Role of Social Media in Autism Awareness

Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become powerful tools for spreading awareness and offering authentic portrayals of autism. Unlike traditional media, where portrayals are shaped by writers and directors, platforms like TikTok allow individuals on the autism spectrum to share their experiences directly. Autistic creators use short videos to challenge stereotypes, educate the public, and discuss sensory sensitivities or coping strategies. Social media also promotes advocacy and connection within the autism community, offering a space for more accurate, diverse representations of autism.

The Future of Autism in Pop Culture

As creators, writers, and actors with autism become more involved in telling their own stories, the depiction of autism in popular culture is becoming more accurate and diverse. Documentaries like Life, Animated and shows like Everything’s Gonna Be Okay have started to reflect a broader range of experiences, offering a richer understanding of autism beyond stereotypes.

Ultimately, pop culture has the power to shape public perception. Accurate and inclusive representations of autism can foster greater acceptance, reduce stigma, and help create a more understanding society. In tandem, social media platforms like TikTok are amplifying the voices of those on the spectrum, allowing them to challenge outdated representations and share their diverse, everyday experiences. By continuing to tell stories that reflect the full spectrum of autism, both traditional media and social platforms can play a pivotal role in promoting awareness, empathy, and acceptance of neurodiversity.

Written by: Hayley

References

Freepik. (n.d.). African family spending time together [Photograph]. Freepik. https://img.freepik.com/free-photo/african-family-spending-time-together_53876-24693.jpg

Conner, A. (n.d.). Positive Representations of Autism in Pop Culture - Living Autism. Living Autism. https://livingautism.com/positive-representations-autism-pop-culture/

Jones, S. C. (2022). Hey look, I’m (not) on TV: autistic people reflect on autism portrayals in entertainment media. Disability & Society, 39(6), 1484–1501. https://doi.org/10.1080/09687599.2022.2150602

Maich, K. (2014). Autism Spectrum Disorders in Popular Media: Storied Reflections of Societal Views. Brock Education Journal, 23(2). https://doi.org/10.26522/brocked.v23i2.311

Voorhies, M. (2024, March 28). The rise and representation of autism in pop culture. NOLA Family Magazine. https://www.nolafamily.com/the-rise-and-representation-of-autism-in-pop-culture/