EXPLORING HOW MEDIA AND FILM PORTRAY THE SOCIAL LIFE OF AUTISTIC PEOPLE

Abstract

This research highlights gaps in literature by exploring how fictional and non-fictional media portray the life trajectories of autistic people by examining the primary objectives in movies, TV shows, and documentaries. This research uncovers contradictions and stigmatization of autistic individuals, comparing these portrayals to existing literature. It highlights topics such as autistic adults navigating university life, transitioning to work, and forming intimate relationships. This research fills a gap within the literature, as this type of objective analysis has not been previously conducted in an academic setting. Through discourse analysis, the research explores how both fictional and non-fictional media shape social norms and generate stigma toward the autistic community. Unlike current literature, which focuses on why people on the autism spectrum1 are portrayed stereotypically, this research evaluates how they are depicted in fictional media using DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Nine movies, TV shows, and documentaries were selected based on specific criteria, including representing at least one autistic character, to evaluate how they are depicted on TV. The research follows themes of a pre-established formula by Dr Baker (2008) known as “The Autistic Formula” to guide the evaluation of autism depiction of stereotypes in fictional media. Thus, by understanding how autistic individuals are portrayed in fictional media, this research sheds light on the social life experiences of autistic people.