autism

An image of a person looking confused while holding a puzzle piece and an infinity sign.

The Puzzle Piece Vs. Infinity Symbol — What To Use To Represent Autism?

Jayar Brenner, Michigan State University

Though the design may seem innocuous, the meaning of the puzzle piece can be harmful to the autistic community.…

August 26, 2021

In an article about a person changing his name, an illustration of a person on a ladder in front of a "Hello my name is" sticker

A Look Into My Transgender Life and Why I Changed My Name

Jayar Brenner, Michigan State University

'I owe myself a life of fulfillment and authenticity, whether it fits your mind’s image of who I should be or not.'…

August 18, 2021

Illustration of Pearl from Steven universe being hugged

Pearl From Steven Universe Is Great for Autism Representation

Jayar Brenner, Michigan State University

Though the character isn't written to be autistic in the show, she still serves as a positive portrayal of what it means to have autism.…

July 21, 2021

In an article about Mark Rober, an illustration of a person holding a bowl filled with money in front of a rainbow infinity sign.

An Open Letter to Mark Rober From an Autistic Adult

Jayar Brenner, Michigan State University

Here is an intimate look at the harm this YouTuber has caused autistic people by spreading misinformation and raising money for shady charities.…

July 8, 2021

Sia’s New Film ‘Music’ Is Harmful to the Autistic Community

Isabelle Juan, Truman State University

The Australian singer-songwriter's debut movie left many with a sour taste in their mouths due to the inhumane treatment of its neuroatypical main character.…

March 1, 2021

Sia Faces Scrutiny From Autistic Community For Upcoming Film ‘Music’

Katherine Bry, Washington University

The musician cast a neurotypical actor to play an autistic character in her soon-to-be-released movie, a choice many are calling ableist.…

December 7, 2020

‘The Kiss Quotient’ Is a Compelling Story of Love on the Autism Spectrum

Srishti Tyagi, Cornell University

Helen Hoang’s novel paints a rich portrait of an autistic heroine, captivating readers by avoiding one-dimensional stereotypes that have long persisted in media.…

October 5, 2020

Netflix’s ‘Love on the Spectrum’ Challenges Normalcies of Reality Television

Luke Gair, Sewanee: The University of the South

The five-part series shifts the spotlight to autistic individuals, ultimately subverting exclusionary notions of mainstream media. Does it succeed?…

August 26, 2020

A multicolored fractured illustration of a woman representing ADHD symptoms.

The ‘Secret’ Symptoms of ADHD From Someone With Personal Experience

Olivia Dimond, Bates College

Many people think of the disorder as a learning disability that makes kids hyper and easily distracted, but it’s much more complicated than that.…

August 8, 2020

Moon-young and Gang-tae from It's Okay to Not Be Okay

‘It’s Okay to Not Be Okay’ Takes Viewers on a Journey of Healing

Reem Farhat, Fordham University

The groundbreaking Korean drama reimagines media representation of mental health to build a show about struggle and growth.…

July 30, 2020

In article about Autism Speaks, the rainbow infinity symbol, which stands for the diversity of the autism spectrum

Autism Speaks Does Not Speak for Autistic People

Lisa Lilianstrom, Northern Illinois University

The organization treats autistic people as 'problems' to be fixed instead of actually listening to their voices.…

May 22, 2020

How Anthony Padilla Is Using His Channel to Help People

Lisa Lilianstrom, Northern Illinois University

The former Smosh YouTuber is offering a voice to those who are often oppressed and stereotyped, all in a judgment-free and educational way.…

May 16, 2020

6 Autistic Influencers You Should Be Following on Instagram

Lisa Lilianstrom, Northern Illinois University

April is Autism Awareness Month, but these Instagram accounts are educating people about autism all year round.…

April 29, 2020

Illustration of female influencers with disabilities

6 Female Influencers With Disabilities That You Should Be Following

Lisa Lilianstrom, Northern Illinois University

These women are making the world a more inclusive and accessible place, one post at a time.…

March 18, 2020

Kayla Cromer Breaks Down Barriers for Neurodiverse Representation on TV

Lisa Lilianstrom, Northern Illinois University

As both the star of 'Everything's Gonna Be Okay' and an actress on the spectrum, she's eliminating harmful stereotypes of autism that other shows often perpetuate.…

March 8, 2020

‘Ask an Autistic’ Brings Awareness and Acceptance to Autism

Eleanore Belanger, Arizona State University

Amythest Schaber answers questions and busts myths about autism in their YouTube series.…

September 23, 2019

Living With Nonverbal Learning Disorder

Haley Cohen, Quinnipiac University

But it doesn't mean I can't teach others about it.…

July 19, 2019

What Families of Those with Mental Disabilities Want You to Know

Kaitlin Romriell, Southern New Hampshire University

Mental disabilities affect people in different ways, but it’s people’s responses that make a difference.…

July 16, 2019

Disability Representation in the Media: What Does Netflix Get Wrong?

Michaela Shea-Gander, Denison University

Baby steps are better than no steps at all, but shows like 'Atypical' and 'Special' still have their flaws.…

April 7, 2019

‘The Good Doctor’ Is Doing a Good Job Debunking Autism Stereotypes

Paige Brauser, Connecticut College

It might be hyperbolized, but Dr. Shaun Murphy's knack for continually beating the odds is incredibly important.…

October 8, 2018

Why Everyone Needs to Be Watching Netflix’s ‘Atypical’

Gabbi Calabrese, Arkansas Tech University

I’ll give you a hint: It’s not because of the humor or heartwarming resolutions (though those are nice).…

September 19, 2018

Orange Coast College Student Accused of Vandalism Sues College

Dominique Bander, Loyola University Maryland

The 21-year-old, who is on the autism spectrum, was sent to jail based on suspicion that he carved a swastika and a racial slur into two Orange Coast College security vehicles. …

March 15, 2018