Why Autism Representation Is Important In The Media

1. Why Autism Representation Is Important In The Media As both adults and children, the media we consume is often partly responsible for how we formulate opinions or view the world around us. This is because it often provides us with a framework that we can use when navigating situations that may be new to us or when meeting new people. Furthermore, it is important that children of all ages see themselves – or characters that look, act, and think in the same way they do – in media such as TV shows, films, and books. This is because it helps them feel seen, respected and shows that they too have a story to tell. It also promotes inclusion while ensuring that the culture we devour is representative of the whole population – as opposed to a select few. However, media representation can also create subconscious biases and spread misinformation when certain characters or stories are not portrayed correctly. Unfortunately, this is often the case when characters with Autism and other developmental disabilities are shown on our screens. For example: In 2020, music-star Sia released her directorial debut film, Music, which chronicled the life of a child with autism and her sister that cared for her. However, despite claiming that she merely wanted to represent autism on screen – Sia was criticized for what ultimately became a portrayal that relied on myths and stereotypes. Furthermore, many critics stated that some of the advice given within the film regarding how to support a child with autism is harmful and outdated – which could lead to a lot of trouble further down the line.

2. This is troublesome for various reasons but can be particularly harmful to children with autism who do not deserve to see their behaviors reduced to a stereotype. They should be able to look at a character on screen and go; He’s like me because he’s smart, and he likes to do. They should feel validated by what they see – and not because they are made to be the butt of the joke. While Sia’s movie is not only concerning, it is not alone. In fact, Music can easily be added to a catalog of films where autistic characters are forced into stereotypes – even though autism is not a set of rigid behaviors and affects every person in different ways. Whether you are watching Rainman or Atypical – these problems present themselves again and again. With that in mind, when it comes to parenting a child with autism, how can you find materials for them that are not only suitable but will not leave them feeling reduced to a certain (incorrect stereotype)? After all, despite what these cinematic blunders may have made you think – children with autism and related disorders are not anti-social people who are happy to sit on the sidelines. In fact, with the proper support, therapy, and care, they can thrive in any situation that comes their way. Thankfully, with a call for better representation coming directly from the autistic community, there are ways in which you can help your child in this matter. For example, you can: •Read books that feature authentic, well-constructed characters on the autistic spectrum. •Watch films and TV shows where portrayals of autism are positive, not reductive. For example, while it’s okay for them to demonstrate the struggles that may come alongside an autism diagnosis, they should not make autism seem as though it is a bad thing. A good example of this is the newly introduced Sesame Street Character Julia. •Keep an eye out for content put together by autistic creators – as who better to tell these stories than those with a lived experience of the condition? You could even encourage their creativity by getting them to write and tell their own stories. •Encourage your child to rise above stereotypes and be confident in who they are. So, they might be a little different from their peers –but that doesn’t make them any less fun, entertaining or bright. It puts no limits on what they can achieve – and differences deserve to be celebrated. In short, while consistent, authentic representation seems to be missing from popular culture – it is slowly finding its way into the mainstream. As such, you should continue to seek out this material wherever possible. To get more updates about Autism, visit Alee Behavioral Healthcare