Research and Presentations

 The Film Spectrum: An Analysis of Autism & Disability Representation in Media

This analysis, delivered from the perspective of an autistic individual, analyzes the portrayal of autism and disability representation in media, specifically film and television. 

Representation is dire, as it can often be an individual’s first time experiencing such a character. However, despite the importance of representation, often minorities are hidden from the spotlight, including autistic and disabled individuals.

Such portrayals are not always “good,” often falling under harmful tropes and stereotypes. Able-bodied actors often portray some characters who may have a disability, while disabled actors might be passed over for roles due to their disability.

Using a variety of movies, TV shows, and anime, we will explore harmful tropes, the portrayal of disabilities, the casting of characters with disabilities, and why representation matters.

The Gay Agenda: Being Accepted in Children’s Media

For many LGBTQ+ children, there is a lack of representation of their identities in the television shows they see growing up. We turn to objects, like television characters, to help “find our way,” which becomes limited for individuals who are part of the minority (Ahmed 1). When television shows reflect a variety of lived experiences, they can increase cultural competence in their viewers. While LGBTQ+ representation in children’s media has increased, it is still difficult to implement such representation. This thesis we will discuss three shows, Gravity Falls, Steven Universe, and The Owl House, that have struggled with the implementation of LGBTQ+ characters, discussing why this representation matters, how media have made progress in this area, and what challenges remain to broaden LGBTQ+ in children’s media.