Does The Good Doctor Have Autism?

Introduction to the Show's Autism Character

'The Good Doctor' has garnered widespread attention for its portrayal of Shaun Murphy, a surgical resident navigating the complex world of medicine while living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and savant syndrome. As a popular medical drama, it aims to balance entertainment with authentic representation, prompting viewers to question and better understand the realities of autism.

Is Shaun Murphy Portrayed as Someone with Autism in 'The Good Doctor'?

Shaun Murphy's diagnosis and traits

Shaun Murphy, the central character in 'The Good Doctor,' is portrayed as a young surgeon who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and savant syndrome. This combination is depicted through various traits that resonate with real-world experiences of people on the autism spectrum.

Throughout the series, Shaun exhibits social difficulties such as awkwardness, lack of eye contact, and challenges in understanding social cues. He often plays with his hands when stressed and demonstrates literal thinking, which are common indicators of ASD.

In addition to social traits, the show highlights sensory sensitivities, including overload in busy hospital environments. Shaun's extraordinary memory and attention to detail showcase his savant skills, which contribute significantly to his surgical talents.

The creators of the show aimed to portray these features authentically. They consulted with autism experts and included input from individuals on the spectrum to ensure a respectful and realistic representation. This approach was intended to educate viewers about both the struggles and strengths of autism.

While the portrayal has been praised for increasing awareness and fostering empathy, it has also faced criticism. Some argue that the show relies too much on stereotypes, especially by emphasizing magical savant abilities, which are not representative of all autistic individuals.

Despite these criticisms, Shaun's character helps spark conversations about neurodiversity, inclusion, and the diversity of autism experiences. The show endeavors to present a balanced view, acknowledging the unique challenges as well as the remarkable abilities of individuals on the spectrum.

Overall, Shaun Murphy's character provides a nuanced glimpse into living with autism, emphasizing that neurodiversity encompasses a wide range of traits and experiences.

Trait	Description	Context in 'The Good Doctor'
Social Challenges	Difficulty understanding social cues	Often appears awkward or lacks eye contact
Sensory Sensitivities	Overload from loud or busy environments	Shaun demonstrates sensory overload in hospital settings
Literal Thinking	Struggles with idiomatic expressions or abstract ideas	Frequently interprets instructions very literally
Savant Skills	Exceptional memory and attention to detail	Shauns' surgical precision and recall capabilities

This portrayal aims to enhance understanding of the diversity found within autism, highlighting that each individual's experience is unique.

Does 'The Good Doctor' Accurately Depict Autism?

Representation of autism spectrum traits

'The Good Doctor' centers around Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and savant syndrome. This portrayal highlights a range of traits associated with autism, such as social awkwardness, difficulty understanding social cues, sensory sensitivities, and literal thinking. Shaun often demonstrates challenges like avoiding eye contact and playing with his hands when stressed, which are common behaviors among individuals with ASD.

The character's extraordinary memory and attention to detail exemplify the savant aspect, which is present in a subset of people on the spectrum. These strengths are portrayed as assets in Shaun's medical practice, emphasizing that autism encompasses both challenges and unique talents.

The series aims to depict these traits with authenticity, informed by consulting autism experts and incorporating feedback from disabilities and neurodiversity advocates. It strives to balance showcasing Shaun's differences while portraying him as a caring and capable individual.

Does the show accurately depict autism?

'The Good Doctor' portrays Shaun Murphy as having autism spectrum disorder and savant syndrome, illustrating both his difficulties and capabilities. Although the show has been praised for raising awareness and challenging stereotypes, it has also faced critique. Some community members argue that it relies on stereotypical ideas about savant syndrome and does not fully capture the diversity of autism experiences.

The creators consulted with autism experts to ensure a respectful depiction. However, initial casting choices—such as hiring actors without autism and an autism consultant who was non-autistic—raised questions about representation authenticity. Recent seasons have taken positive steps, like casting Kayla Cromer, an autistic actress, to play an autistic character, promoting more inclusive casting.

Critics also point out instances where scenes, like Shaun's ignorance or transphobia toward a patient, do not accurately reflect the broader autistic community, particularly considering the higher prevalence of autism among trans and nonbinary individuals. Equally, some feel the show only scratches the surface of what it means to live with autism, often focusing on visible traits rather than the full spectrum of neurodiverse experiences.

Overall, while 'The Good Doctor' makes an earnest effort to present autism thoughtfully, it falls short of capturing the full breadth and diversity of the spectrum. It tends toward a somewhat stereotypical depiction in certain aspects but also introduces viewers to the challenges and strengths of autistic individuals, fostering awareness and empathy.

More about autism portrayal accuracy in 'The Good Doctor'

Critics and fans have debated whether the series offers a balanced and truthful representation. Some praise its role in increasing understanding, while others wish for a deeper, more nuanced portrayal that includes a wider range of experiences and avoids reliance on stereotypes.

In conclusion, the show provides a generally positive depiction that has helped boost autism awareness. However, its portrayal remains imperfect, calling for continued efforts toward authentic and inclusive storytelling.

Feature	Representation in 'The Good Doctor'	Comments
Autism traits	Yes	Includes social challenges, sensory sensitivities
Savant syndrome	Yes	Focus on exceptional memory and attention to detail
Authenticity	Partial	Based on expert consultation, though some stereotypes persist
Diversity of experiences	Limited	Focus on certain traits, misses full spectrum representation
Casting and consulting	Improving	Recent inclusion of autistic actor, but initial approach was limited
Media impact	Positive	Raises awareness but with some inaccuracies or stereotypes

Overall, 'The Good Doctor' aims to depict autism thoughtfully, yet ongoing discussion highlights the importance of more diverse and authentic portrayals.

Features and Characteristics of Autism as Seen in the Series

In 'The Good Doctor,' autism is depicted through the character of Dr. Shaun Murphy, showcasing a variety of traits associated with the spectrum. Shaun exhibits difficulty interpreting social cues, often appearing socially awkward or awkwardly direct, which reflects common challenges faced by many autistic individuals. He struggles with eye contact and sometimes plays with his hands or engages in repetitive behaviors in stressful situations, demonstrating sensory sensitivities that are frequent among those on the spectrum.

Despite these challenges, Shaun possesses impressive strengths that are characteristic of savant syndrome, often linked with autism. His exceptional memory, attention to detail, and advanced problem-solving skills enable him to excel as a surgeon. This portrayal seeks to balance the depiction of difficulties with positive traits, emphasizing that individuals with autism can have meaningful careers and caring personalities.

The series aims to present autism as a spectrum, illustrating that each person’s experience is unique. It covers both the struggles, such as social misunderstandings and sensory overload, and the talents that can flourish with support. The show's creators worked with autism experts to ensure the authenticity of these features, although some critics argue that the portrayal sometimes relies on stereotypical traits linked with savant syndrome.

Overall, 'The Good Doctor' highlights that autism involves a diverse range of experiences. It encourages viewers to see beyond stereotypes, understanding that people with autism can lead rich, successful lives while facing real challenges. This nuanced presentation fosters awareness and promotes acceptance, though ongoing discussions call for even more varied and in-depth portrayals.

Traits Depicted	Strengths	Challenges
Social difficulties	Excellent memory	Sensory overload
Difficulty interpreting cues	Attention to detail	Communication struggles
Repetitive behaviors	Problem-solving skills	Social interactions
Sensory sensitivities	Compassion and empathy	Social awkwardness

By showcasing both the hurdles and the talents of Shaun Murphy, the show seeks to portray a fuller picture of what it means to live with autism, promoting better understanding and inclusion.

Introduction of Other Autism Characters in 'The Good Doctor'

In addition to Dr. Shaun Murphy, 'The Good Doctor' introduced a new autistic character, Charlene ‘Charlie’ Lukaitis, played by actress Kayla Cromer. Charlie is a med student who is depicted with autism, reflecting the show's effort to include more authentic portrayals of neurodiversity.

The casting of Kayla Cromer, an actor on the autism spectrum, marked a positive step toward greater inclusion and accurate representation. This change was seen as a move to better showcase the diversity of experiences within the autistic community.

Having an autistic actor portray a character with autism allows for a more genuine depiction of their challenges and strengths. The character Charlie is shown navigating medical training, social interactions, and personal growth, emphasizing that individuals on the spectrum can excel and contribute significantly.

This inclusion effort aims to expand the narrative around autism, moving beyond stereotypes and fostering a more nuanced understanding. The development of Charlie’s character underscores the series' ongoing commitment to portraying autism with authenticity and respect.

Character	Actor	Autism Spectrum Status	Role in Show	Additional Notes
Shaun Murphy	Freddie Highmore	Autism & Savant Syndrome	Surgical Resident	Iconic main character
Charlie Lukaitis	Kayla Cromer	Autistic & on spectrum	Medical Student	First autistic actor in a key role

The show continues to explore these characters’ lives, highlighting their talents and struggles, aiming to shed light on the genuine diversity within the autism spectrum.

Real-Life Autistic Medical Professionals

Are there real-life autistic doctors? Yes, there are. Increasingly, individuals on the autism spectrum are making significant contributions within the medical field.

Organizations such as Autistic Doctors International, which has over 600 members worldwide, support neurodiverse clinicians and work to raise awareness about the presence of autistic professionals in medicine.

Many autistic doctors prefer to keep their diagnosis private due to societal stigma. However, some are beginning to speak openly about their experiences, highlighting how traits associated with autism—such as attention to detail, persistence, and strong memory—can be beneficial in medical practice.

Research suggests that about 1% of doctors, mainly GPs and psychiatrists, are on the autism spectrum. This likely underestimates the true number, as many do not disclose their diagnosis.

Autistic doctors contribute positively by bringing unique perspectives to patient care, improving diagnosis accuracy, and fostering inclusive healthcare environments.

Their presence underscores that autism, often portrayed as a barrier, can also be a source of strength in demanding professions like medicine.

Public Perception and Critical Response to the Show's Autism Depiction

Feedback from viewers and the autism community regarding Shaun Murphy’s portrayal in 'The Good Doctor' is mixed. Many appreciate the series for raising awareness about autism and showcasing the potential strengths of individuals on the spectrum, such as exceptional memory and empathy. However, some critics and members of the community argue that the show relies too much on stereotypes, particularly emphasizing savant syndrome, which may not represent the full diversity of autistic experiences.

The series attempts to create a balanced image by depicting both the hurdles faced by autistic individuals, like social and sensory challenges, and their unique talents. This approach has helped spark many important conversations about neurodiversity and inclusion.

A notable positive change was the casting of an autistic actor, Kayla Cromer, in a recurring role during the final season. This move was viewed as an effort to offer more authentic representation and break away from stereotypical portrayals.

Overall, 'The Good Doctor' has played a role in increasing awareness about autism, but it also faces criticism for not fully capturing the spectrum's diversity or avoiding stereotypes. The show's depiction continues to influence public perceptions, emphasizing the need for ongoing, nuanced portrayals that reflect the variety of autism experiences.

The Limitations and Opportunities in Autism Representation

What are the criticisms of the show regarding autism portrayal?

'The Good Doctor' has been both praised and criticized for its depiction of autism. Critics argue that the portrayal relies heavily on stereotypes rather than offering a well-rounded, realistic view of autistic individuals. When the show first aired, it lacked autistic writers and cast members, and its autism consultant was non-autistic, which limited the authenticity of the character’s representation.

Some scenes have been viewed as problematic, such as Shaun Murphy’s display of ignorance and transphobia towards a patient. These scenes drew criticism because they did not accurately reflect how many autistic people understand social cues or navigate social interactions. Additionally, such portrayals risk reinforcing misconceptions about autism being solely about deficits or lack of empathy.

There are also concerns that the show often focused disproportionately on savant abilities, which do not encompass the full spectrum of autism. While Shaun’s exceptional memory and attention to detail highlight strengths, they may create an incomplete picture—ignoring the numerous challenges many autistic individuals face.

Despite the inclusion of an autistic actor, Kayla Cromer, in the final season, critics note that the show still has room to grow. More efforts in authentic casting and storytelling could improve understanding and representation. Overall, while 'The Good Doctor' has contributed to increased awareness, it also highlights significant opportunities for future shows to provide richer, more diverse representations of autistic experiences.

Conclusion: The Impact and Significance of 'The Good Doctor' Autism Portrayal

The portrayal of Shaun Murphy in 'The Good Doctor' provides a generally positive view of autism, emphasizing both challenges and talents associated with the condition. The show has helped increase awareness about autism and neurodiversity, encouraging viewers to rethink stereotypes and understand individual differences. Throughout its run, it has featured authentic traits like sensory sensitivities and social difficulties, but has also faced criticism for relying on stereotypes, especially with the portrayal of savant syndrome.

Progress is evident, such as casting an autistic actor, Kayla Cromer, in a later season, which marked a step toward more genuine representation. The series integrates input from autism experts, aiming to raise awareness and foster understanding. However, it still misses opportunities for deeper exploration of diverse autistic experiences, often portraying a simplified or stereotypical view.

Overall, 'The Good Doctor' has played a significant role in sparking broader conversations about autism in media. Its influence highlights the importance of authentic storytelling and inclusive casting to better reflect the complexities of autism and contribute to a more accurate, respectful portrayal in popular culture.

Final Thoughts on Autism Representation in 'The Good Doctor'

'The Good Doctor' has undoubtedly made a meaningful contribution to the portrayal of autism in mainstream television, bringing visibility to the spectrum's diverse experiences. While the series demonstrates a commendable effort to balance realism with storytelling, criticisms highlight the need for more nuanced and inclusive representation. The casting of an autistic actor in later seasons reflects positive change, underscoring the importance of authentic voices in media. Overall, the show has advanced public understanding and awareness of autism, serving as both an inspiration and a reminder of the ongoing journey toward more accurate and respectful portrayals.

References

• My review of 'The Good Doctor' as an adult with autism
• The Good Doctor Autism Portrayal Examined - AutismCOE
• Good Riddance to The Good Doctor | TIME
• Shaun Murphy: Autism Representation in "The Good Doctor"
• With New Season, 'The Good Doctor' Adds Character With Autism
• A Critical Autism Analysis of The Good Doctor | Blossom ABA
• Shaun Murphy: Autism Representation in "The Good Doctor"