Understanding The Good Doctor
The Good Doctor, a popular medical drama, centers around Dr. Shaun Murphy, a talented young surgeon who has autism and savant syndrome. The show, which premiered in 2017, brings autism to the forefront of the entertainment world and sparks important discussions about the portrayal of individuals with autism in mainstream media. In this blog post, we will explore how autism is depicted in The Good Doctor and how the show contributes to a better understanding of the autism spectrum.
The Representation of Autism in The Good Doctor
At the heart of The Good Doctor is Dr. Shaun Murphy, a character played by actor Freddie Highmore. Shaun is portrayed as a brilliant medical resident with an extraordinary ability to diagnose rare medical conditions, a characteristic of savant syndrome. However, his autism, which presents itself through social difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and a unique way of thinking, makes it challenging for him to navigate the complexities of the medical world and human relationships.
While Shaun’s autism is a significant part of his character, it’s important to note that The Good Doctor takes a thoughtful approach to how it depicts autism. Rather than focusing solely on the challenges of autism, the show highlights Shaun’s strengths, such as his incredible attention to detail, his ability to process information quickly, and his unmatched memory. These positive traits are often overshadowed by societal misunderstandings and bias, but Shaun’s journey demonstrates the potential that people with autism can unlock when given the opportunity and support they need.
Understanding the Spectrum of Autism
Autism is a spectrum disorder, meaning it encompasses a wide range of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairment. It’s essential to recognize that every individual with autism experiences the condition differently. In The Good Doctor, the show focuses primarily on one specific presentation of autism, but it’s important to understand that not all individuals with autism share the same experiences.
The core features of autism generally include:
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Communication Challenges: Individuals with autism may struggle with verbal and nonverbal communication. This can include difficulties with understanding social cues, facial expressions, and body language. Shaun, in The Good Doctor, often finds himself in social situations where his directness or lack of understanding of social nuances creates tension with others.
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Social Interaction Difficulties: Autism often makes it difficult for individuals to engage in typical social interactions. People with autism may prefer solitude or struggle with making friends and maintaining relationships. Shaun’s relationships, both personal and professional, are central to the story as he learns to navigate these interactions.
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Repetitive Behaviors: Some individuals with autism engage in repetitive movements or routines. Shaun’s behavior in The Good Doctor often includes adhering to routines, which helps him feel grounded in a world that can be overwhelming.
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Sensory Sensitivities: Many people with autism experience heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory stimuli, such as sounds, lights, and textures. In the show, Shaun occasionally exhibits sensory overload, such as discomfort with loud noises or bright lights, a reality for many individuals with autism.
The portrayal of autism in The Good Doctor helps normalize some of these challenges and provides viewers with a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum.
The Role of ABA Therapy in Supporting Autistic Individuals
One aspect of Shaun’s development that The Good Doctor does not delve into deeply but which is crucial in supporting autistic individuals is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. ABA is a scientifically proven approach to understanding and improving behavior in individuals with autism. It focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors and teaching new skills through structured and systematic methods.
While the show doesn’t explicitly mention ABA therapy, it’s worth noting that Shaun’s social and communication skills, which are central to his growth as a doctor and individual, would likely benefit from this type of therapy. ABA is often used to help individuals with autism develop crucial skills such as communication, social interaction, and self-regulation. In real life, many individuals with autism undergo ABA therapy from an early age to improve their quality of life.
The Challenges of Portraying Autism on Screen
One of the challenges of accurately portraying autism on television is that the spectrum is vast, and no two individuals with autism are alike. The show’s portrayal of Shaun has been praised for highlighting the complexity of autism, but some critics argue that his character may not fully represent the diversity of the autism community. For example, Shaun’s high level of functioning and savant abilities may create an unrealistic expectation for people with autism, leading to a perception that all individuals on the spectrum have extraordinary abilities in specific areas.
Additionally, The Good Doctor also explores how Shaun faces prejudice and skepticism from his colleagues because of his autism. This reflects real-life challenges that individuals with autism often encounter in professional environments and social settings. The stigma that Shaun faces can be relatable to many people on the spectrum who experience discrimination or misunderstanding.
Despite these challenges, the show plays a crucial role in raising awareness about autism and encouraging more inclusive representation in media. By portraying autism in a way that highlights both the struggles and strengths of individuals on the spectrum, The Good Doctor helps to foster empathy and understanding in its audience.
Autism and Employment: Lessons from The Good Doctor
One of the significant themes in The Good Doctor is the difficulty that Shaun experiences in the workplace, specifically in his role as a surgeon. His colleagues initially question his ability to handle the demands of the job due to his social challenges and unconventional communication style. However, over time, Shaun proves himself to be an exceptional doctor, highlighting the importance of embracing neurodiversity in the workplace.
In real life, many individuals with autism face similar challenges in securing and maintaining employment, particularly in fields that require strong social interactions or teamwork. However, research shows that individuals with autism can thrive in careers that leverage their unique strengths, such as attention to detail, pattern recognition, and technical skills.
Programs like ABA therapy can play a significant role in preparing individuals with autism for the workforce by helping them build the social and professional skills necessary for success. By focusing on their strengths and providing the right support, individuals with autism can excel in a wide range of careers, just as Shaun does in his medical practice.
The Importance of Family Support in the Autism Journey
Throughout The Good Doctor, Shaun’s family plays a vital role in supporting his development. His father’s initial rejection of him and his subsequent relationship with his brother and mentor highlight the importance of family understanding and acceptance. This is a critical aspect of the real-world autism experience, as family support is essential for an autistic individual’s success.
Families of individuals with autism often face unique challenges, including understanding their loved one’s needs and advocating for appropriate services and accommodations. One of the key takeaways from The Good Doctor is the importance of empathy and support from family members in fostering independence and self-esteem in individuals with autism.
Parents of children with autism can benefit from learning about ABA therapy and other forms of support that can enhance their child’s development and quality of life. Families should be encouraged to seek out resources that promote understanding and empowerment for both themselves and their children.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Good Doctor offers a valuable platform for raising awareness about autism, educating viewers, and encouraging meaningful conversations around neurodiversity. While the show centers on the story of one individual with autism, it highlights the many unique ways autism can manifest and underscores the importance of compassion, support, and understanding.
Although ABA therapy isn’t directly addressed in the series, it remains a powerful tool for helping individuals with autism build essential life skills and confidently engage with the world around them. For families seeking ways to better support their loved ones, exploring ABA therapy can be a meaningful and impactful step.
If you’re searching for personalized guidance and support, Little Champs ABA is here to help. Visit our site to learn more about how ABA therapy can make a difference in your child’s journey toward growth and independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is autism?
Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. It is called a “spectrum” because it manifests differently in each individual, with varying degrees of severity.
2. How does ABA therapy help individuals with autism?
ABA therapy uses evidence-based techniques to teach new skills, improve behavior, and reduce challenging behaviors. It focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors and helping individuals develop skills for daily living, communication, and social interaction.
3. Why is an accurate representation of autism in media important?
An accurate representation of autism in media helps raise awareness, reduce stigma, and foster empathy. It can also promote a better understanding of the diverse experiences of individuals with autism and encourage inclusive practices in society.
Sources:
- https://educationonline.ku.edu/community/social-difficulties-in-autism-spectrum-disorder
- https://www.autismspeaks.org/sensory-issues
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9673985/
- https://researchautism.org/oaracle-newsletter/challenges-autistic-people-face-once-they-have-a-job/
- https://autism.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Emotional-Regulation-March-2022.pdf