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Published on: October 3, 2018
Stereotypes of autism
1Heymans Institute, University of Groningen, PO Box 72, 9700 AB Groningen, The Netherlands. d.draaisma@rug.nl
Summary
Media portrayals of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often create harmful stereotypes. This study examines how these representations diverge from clinical reality, impacting public understanding of autism.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Media Studies
- Autism Research
Background:
- Historical case studies by Kanner and Asperger shaped early clinical understanding of autistic disorders.
- Contemporary psychiatric practice has largely moved away from case-history-based assessments.
- Societal understanding of autism spectrum disorders is heavily influenced by media portrayals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze how historical and contemporary representations of autism contribute to stereotype formation.
- To investigate the divergence between media depictions and the clinical reality of autism spectrum disorder.
- To assess the impact of media representations on public perception and understanding of autism.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of historical case studies in autism research.
- Critical examination of media representations of autism (novels, TV, film, autobiographies).
- Comparison of media portrayals with clinical realities of autistic conditions.
Main Results:
- Case histories, though outdated in practice, reveal mechanisms of stereotype development.
- Media representations frequently misrepresent autism, particularly regarding talents and special abilities.
- A significant gap exists between the public image of autism and its clinical presentation.
Conclusions:
- Scrutinizing media representations of autism is crucial for accurate public understanding.
- Misrepresentations, especially of special abilities, can create harmful societal perceptions of autism spectrum disorder.
- Aligning public perception with clinical reality requires critical engagement with autism portrayals.
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