๐ Introducing Autism Advocacy UCLA's Blog: "Autism Unboxed" ๐
Welcome to our official blog! We are so excited to share insight on autism awareness, acceptance, and advocacy.
This week: ๐ฌ Week 1: False Portrayals of Autism in Film/Media ๐ฌ
Our inaugural blog post, crafted by our Co-Outreach Director: Geraldine kicks off our advocacy journey by exploring some examples of autism portrayal in pop culture television. Join us as we engage in thoughtful conversations about how these portrayals shape our understanding and what we can do to foster a more authentic and compassionate representation.
Stay tuned for thought-provoking insights, personal stories, and much more in the upcoming weeks as we strive to bridge the gap between myth and reality when it comes to autism.
Why does representation matter?
Pro's:
- promote inclusion and acceptance
- allows people with autism to see themselves as characters
- can help educate people on disabilities
Con's:
- does not properly show the ranges of characteristics people with ASD may have
- fails to correctly educate
Example #1 - Girl Meets World: Farkle, Disney Show 2015
Main Issue:
- reaction characterizes ASD as a disease, showcasing fear and concern
Why is this poor representation?
- stigma attached to autism and autistic people
- makes it difficult for people to get properly diagnosed
- negative impact on autistic and neurodivergent people's mental health
Takeaways:
- no longer use the term "Asperger's Syndrome"
- emphasize autism is not a disease that needs to be cured or feel ashamed of
- reminder to continue to raise awareness about autism and neurodivergence
Example #2 - Atypical: Sam, Netflix Series 2017
Representation:
- highlights transition into adulthood and how ASD impacts the character's journey
- demonstrates how an autistic individual's family accommodates and adjusts
- showcases possible autistic traits, struggles, and experiences
Important to Note:
- perspective on "high functioning autism" is not the majority
- character is played by a non-autistic actor
- use of strong language
Takeaway:
- does a good job of representing the challenges a teen or young adult with ASD may endure, but some aspects were disappointing in terms of accurate represenation
Discussion Questions
- Do any additional examples from other movies, shows, cartoons, etc. come to mind?
- Thoughts on how autism is portrayed in the film/media industry?
- Is it acceptable for non-autistic individuals to play autistic characters?
Thank you for being a part of our community! Feel free to leave your thoughts and comments down below. Good luck with the upcoming fall quarter!
- Geraldine Perez (Co-Outreach Director)
