Introduction

In recent years, mainstream media has increasingly spotlighted autism, attempting to offer perspectives that advance understanding and empathy. Among such works, ABC's TV series 'The Good Doctor' has stood out for its focus on Dr. Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and savant syndrome. This narrative seeks to explore the portrayal of autism in 'The Good Doctor', assessing its impact on public perception and the broader dialogue surrounding autism in media.

How 'The Good Doctor' Portrays Autism

How does 'The Good Doctor' portray autism through the character of Dr. Shaun Murphy?

'The Good Doctor' offers a multifaceted representation of autism through its character Dr. Shaun Murphy, played by Freddie Highmore. The series illustrates autism as a mix of remarkable talent and significant social challenges. Shaun exhibits advanced medical skills and savant syndrome but also grapples with social awkwardness and communication difficulties, common among those on the spectrum.

The portrayal includes elements like sensory sensitivities, showcased when Shaun is distracted by sounds like air vents or buzzing lights, effectively reflecting how heightened sensory perception affects his interactions. Moreover, the show strives to depict his emotional depth, portraying Shaun as capable of empathy and care. In a pivotal scene, he counteracts the stereotype that autistic individuals lack emotional understanding, highlighting his capacity to connect with others.

Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential for generalization in Shaun’s character, noting a lack of autistic representation in the show's development. While positive strides have been made, including the introduction of autistic actress Kayla Cromer in the final season, significant work remains to portray the diverse and complex experiences of autism authentically.

Freddie Highmore's Approach to His Role

How does actor Freddie Highmore prepare to portray a character with autism on 'The Good Doctor'?

Freddie Highmore, the actor behind Dr. Shaun Murphy in 'The Good Doctor', adopts a thorough approach to prepare for his portrayal of a character with autism. His preparation includes leveraging his personal connections; Highmore has family members with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which provides him with a deeper understanding of the condition.

Accompanying his personal insights, Highmore engages in extensive research to accurately depict autism traits. He works closely with autism specialists and consultants, such as expert Melissa Reiner, to ensure a realistic portrayal.

This research informs Highmore’s depiction of sensory sensitivities, such as moments where Dr. Murphy becomes distracted by environmental sounds. By delving into these characteristics, Highmore aims to present Shaun as a complex individual rather than a one-dimensional character, showcasing both his abilities and the challenges inherent to autism, thus contributing to the growing conversation around the representation of autistic individuals in media.

Influence on Public Perception

What impact does the representation of autism in 'The Good Doctor' have on public perception?

The representation of autism in 'The Good Doctor' through Dr. Shaun Murphy has produced a nuanced blend of responses from the audience. Many viewers value the increased visibility and the meaningful conversations surrounding autism that the show prompts.

However, critics highlight significant shortcomings in the portrayal, particularly regarding savant syndrome and the assumption that individuals with autism lack empathy. As Kerry Magro points out, the absence of autistic individuals in the show's writing team raises questions about the authenticity of its representation. This omission can lead to stereotypes being unintentionally reinforced, contributing to ongoing misunderstandings about autism.

Particularly controversial scenes have sparked backlash on social media, indicating that while the show aims to promote understanding, it fails to capture the diversity of experiences within the autism spectrum.

In summary, 'The Good Doctor' has undeniably raised awareness, yet it also emphasizes the need for more nuanced and authentic portrayals that genuinely represent the autistic community.

The Realities of Autistic Professionals

Are there real-life doctors diagnosed with autism?

Yes, there are real-life doctors diagnosed with autism. One prominent example is Dr. JJ Mráček, who received her diagnosis at age 32 during her medical residency. Despite her strong academic background, including a master’s degree in social work, she faced significant challenges throughout medical school. Dr. Mráček encountered conflicts with supervisors and felt ostracized by her peers, experiences that many autistic individuals resonate with in various professional environments.

Comparison with Dr. Murphy's portrayal

Dr. Shaun Murphy, as depicted in 'The Good Doctor', showcases a character with autism who excels in the medical field despite his challenges. While some elements reflect real-life scenarios, such as social difficulties and sensory sensitivities, critics argue that his portrayal can oversimplify the diverse experiences of autistic people. In reality, autistic individuals can exhibit a wide range of skills and might face various obstacles that aren't always highlighted in media representations.

Real-life challenges faced by autistic doctors

Dr. Laura Carravallah emphasizes that empathetic behavior is common among autistic individuals, countering stereotypes that suggest otherwise. Additionally, advocates like Dr. Mráček call for better accommodations within the medical field, advocating for understanding and flexibility in training. This highlights the need for systemic changes that could support neurodiverse professionals, enabling them to thrive alongside their non-autistic peers.

Complex Storylines and Representation

What are the complications and storylines associated with autism in 'The Good Doctor'?

"The Good Doctor" delves into the complexities of autism through its lead character, Dr. Shaun Murphy, portrayed by Freddie Highmore. As a young surgeon with autism and savant syndrome, Shaun faces various professional and personal challenges that shape his unique experiences. His character often exhibits social awkwardness and exceptional visual thinking skills, highlighting the dual nature of autism - both the hurdles and the strengths that come with it.

Despite its intent, some critiques have emerged regarding the representation of autism within the show. While certain episodes, such as "Parenting", explore family dynamics effectively, others have been noted for reinforcing stereotypes rather than embracing the broad spectrum of autistic experiences. Critics argue that without significant autistic voices in the writing and production processes, authentic representation may fall short.

Recent improvements in representation

In recent seasons, "The Good Doctor" has made commendable efforts to enhance its portrayal of autism. The introduction of Charlene "Charlie" Lukaitis, played by Kayla Cromer, marks the first time an autistic actor has portrayed an autistic character on primetime TV. This strategic casting not only aims to provide a more genuine perspective but also invites deeper conversations about the nuances of autism. By evolving its narratives and involving autistic individuals in the creative process, the show hopes to challenge existing stereotypes and promote a more authentic understanding of the autistic experience.

Autistic Community's Response

How do autistic individuals critique 'The Good Doctor's representation of autism?

The autistic community's response to "The Good Doctor" is mixed. While many acknowledge the increased visibility and awareness of autism that the show brings, critiques emphasize that the portrayal of Dr. Shaun Murphy can reinforce misconceptions and stereotypes. Critics argue that the character, while showcasing some real challenges faced by autistic individuals, often falls into the trap of being a representation of savant syndrome alone. This simplifies the vast spectrum of autism and risks overshadowing the diverse experiences within the community.

Discussion on diversity and representation

Many advocates insist on the necessity for diverse representations of autism in media. They argue that more characters with varying traits and challenges should be portrayed to better reflect the unique voices within the autistic community. Additionally, the absence of autistic actors in the show's earlier seasons was seen as a missed opportunity for authenticity. Recent casting decisions, particularly the inclusion of Kayla Cromer, mark a promising shift towards embracing genuine representation.

Value of conversation sparked by the series

Despite the critiques, "The Good Doctor" has succeeded in prompting conversations around autism and neurodiversity. The series encourages viewers to rethink their perceptions and engage in discussions that transcend traditional stereotypes. The dialogues initiated by the show serve as a platform for autistic voices to be heard, highlighting the importance of understanding the complexities of autism beyond surface-level portrayals.

Inspiration behind Dr. Shaun Murphy

Was Dr. Shaun Murphy inspired by a real person or story?

Dr. Shaun Murphy, the lead character in "The Good Doctor," is a fictional creation but is inspired by the real experiences of individuals with autism. The series, a remake of a South Korean show, features a similar journey of an autistic character in the medical field. While the narratives presented are original and not directly based on true events, they incorporate genuine challenges faced by autistic individuals, especially in professional settings.

Relation to true stories and real-life inspirations

The portrayal of Shaun, which includes aspects of savant syndrome, draws from consultations with people on the autism spectrum. This approach aims to present a more authentic representation of autism, reflecting both the successes and struggles of individuals like Shaun. By intertwining real-life influences and insights, the series offers a nuanced portrayal of autism in the medical profession.

Consultations and influence in character creation

Freddie Highmore, who plays Dr. Murphy, worked closely with autism consultants to accurately depict the character's experiences. His commitment to understanding autism through research and discussions helped shape Shaun as a fully realized character, rather than a general stereotype. This dedication contributes to the broad understanding of the complexities associated with autism, fostering increased awareness and acceptance.

Conclusion

Through its portrayal of Dr. Shaun Murphy, 'The Good Doctor' has brought autism to the forefront of television dialogue, highlighting the importance of accurate and empathetic representation. While it has made significant strides in raising awareness, the journey to an authentic portrayal of autism in media is ongoing. Continued efforts to involve autistic voices and experiences are essential to ensure that such narratives speak truthfully and respectfully of those they seek to represent, advancing understanding and acceptance within society.

References

• My review of 'The Good Doctor' as an adult with autism
• Unraveling the Character: Is the Good Doctor Really Autistic?
• With New Season, 'The Good Doctor' Adds Character With Autism
• Autistic Adults Review The Good Doctor - Autism Ontario
• Good Riddance to The Good Doctor | TIME
• How 'The Good Doctor' developed its main character with autism
• The Good Doctor and Autism - eVero Corporation