Is The Good Doctor Really Autistic?

Understanding 'The Good Doctor' and Its Representation of Autism

'The Good Doctor' has sparked widespread discussion about whether its depiction of autism is authentic and how accurate the portrayal truly is. This article explores the insights from both creators and critics, examining the impact of the series on perceptions of autism and the importance of authentic representation.

The Inspiration Behind 'The Good Doctor'

What is the origin of the series?

'The Good Doctor' is a popular medical drama series that debuted in 2017. It was created by David Shore, who is also known for creating the medical series 'House.' The show is an adaptation of a South Korean television series with the same name, which originally aired in 2013.

The American version reimagined the storyline for a Western audience, focusing on the life and challenges faced by Dr. Shaun Murphy, an autistic surgical resident with savant syndrome.

Is it based on real events or a true story?

No, 'The Good Doctor' is not based on a true story. It is a work of fiction inspired by a South Korean series. While the character Shaun Murphy has savant syndrome, a real neurological condition that can grant exceptional skills, his specific story and experiences are fictional.

The series aims to depict autism and savant syndrome authentically by consulting with experts and individuals on the spectrum, but it’s important to note that it does not portray real patients or events.

Creation details and the basis for the character of Shaun Murphy

The character of Shaun Murphy was created by the show’s writers to explore themes of neurodiversity, inclusion, and the talents of individuals with autism. Freddie Highmore, who plays Shaun Murphy, conducted extensive research, including consulting with medical professionals and individuals with autism.

While Shaun's traits—such as social difficulties, sensory sensitivities, and extraordinary memory—are based on real aspects of autism and savant syndrome, his character’s specific storylines are fictional. This portrayal seeks to raise awareness and foster understanding without claiming to represent every person with autism.

Overall, 'The Good Doctor' is a dramatized, fictional medical series inspired by a foreign television show, aiming to shed light on neurodiversity through storytelling.

Assessing the Authenticity of Autism in 'The Good Doctor'

Overall depiction of autism

'The Good Doctor' aims to portray an autistic character, Dr. Shaun Murphy, with an intent to be both inspiring and realistic. The series highlights challenges such as social awkwardness, difficulties with eye contact, sensory sensitivities, and unique problem-solving skills. Shaun’s savant syndrome adds a layer of complexity to his character, illustrating exceptional memory and detail-oriented thinking. While the intention has been to create a positive and empowering image, some critics and autism advocates point out that the depiction often leans into stereotypes. It tends to focus on savant skills, which are present in a minority of autistic individuals, thereby risking oversimplification of the autism spectrum’s diversity.

Despite these flaws, the show has contributed to raising autism awareness and fostering discussions around neurodiversity. It has shifted perceptions toward seeing autistic individuals as capable and deserving of fulfilling lives and careers. Nonetheless, viewers and experts alike emphasize that autism encompasses a broad range of experiences, and 'The Good Doctor' does not fully encapsulate this variability.

Consultation process with experts

The creators of 'The Good Doctor' engaged with autism professionals and consulted with experts to inform the show's content. These consultations included medical and psychological specialists, along with some representatives from the autism community. However, critiques have pointed out that even when autistic consultants were involved, most did not have autism themselves. For example, the series included an autistic actor, Kayla Cromer, in its later seasons, marking a step toward authentic representation.

The involvement of experts aimed to anchor the portrayal in realistic traits and challenges, such as sensory overload and difficulties in social communication. But the reliance on non-autistic opinions has sometimes led to portrayals that lack depth and fail to reflect the full spectrum of autistic experiences. This highlights the ongoing challenge in media to authentically represent neurodiverse individuals.

Impact of research and personal experiences on portrayal

Freddie Highmore, who plays Shaun Murphy, invested considerable research into understanding autism. His efforts included reading literature, consulting with autism specialists, and drawing from his own personal connections—family members with autism—to deepen his understanding.

This research allowed him to emulate sensory sensitivities, such as environmental noise distraction, and social challenges authentically. From Coby Bird, an autistic actor who guest-starred on the show, audiences learn how personal experiences shape portrayals. Bird shared that acting gave him a voice and a means to express himself and better understand others.

Although the series strives for accuracy, critics observe that it often simplifies or dramatizes autism traits for entertainment. Continuous input from autistic voices and personal stories like Bird’s are vital for authentic portrayals that respect the diversity within the spectrum.

Aspect	Details	Additional Notes
Overall depiction	Focuses on autism challenges and strengths	Stereotypes about savant skills often emphasized
Expert consultation	Involved specialists; some autistic actors included later	Non-autistic consultants sometimes limited authenticity
Actor's research	Freddie Highmore used extensive research and personal stories	Highlights the importance of firsthand experience

This ongoing dialogue between media creators, experts, and autistic individuals underscores the importance of nuanced, respectful portrayals that celebrate diversity and promote understanding.

The Portrayal of Autism Traits in 'The Good Doctor'

Traits such as social awkwardness, sensory sensitivities, and communication challenges

In 'The Good Doctor,' Shaun Murphy is depicted showcasing traits commonly associated with autism. These include social awkwardness, such as difficulty understanding social cues and a tendency to interpret conversations very literally. The show also highlights sensory sensitivities, with scenes where Shaun becomes distracted or overwhelmed by environmental noises like loud alarms or bustling hospital activity. Additionally, Shaun exhibits behaviors like hand-flapping and avoiding eye contact, which are often linked to the social and sensory aspects of autism.

The series attempts to portray these traits with sensitivity, emphasizing that they are part of Shaun's unique identity and do not define his entire personality. It aims to foster understanding and acceptance by showing how these characteristics coexist with his medical brilliance.

Representation of savant syndrome

Shaun Murphy's character is also portrayed as having savant syndrome, a condition where individuals demonstrate extraordinary skills or knowledge in specific areas. Shaun's remarkable memory and problem-solving abilities, especially in visualizing complex medical procedures, are painted as strengths that help him excel as a surgeon.

While savant syndrome is a real but rare condition associated with some autistic individuals, the show's depiction simplifies certain aspects for storytelling. Shaun's exceptional skills are used to emphasize that people with autism can possess extraordinary talents, challenging stereotypes of disability. However, critics argue that emphasizing savant abilities can sometimes overshadow the diversity of autistic experiences.

Depiction of autism-related behaviors and thought processes

The series visually explores Shaun’s thought process through graphic overlays and scenes that highlight how he perceives and processes information differently. For instance, he might see visual diagrams or patterns that aid in diagnosing or understanding medical cases.

This approach aims to give viewers a glimpse into the inner workings of an autistic mind, promoting empathy and awareness. Despite this, some experts and viewers believe that the show occasionally relies on stereotypical behaviors and does not fully capture the wide spectrum of autism.

Is the character Shaun Murphy in 'The Good Doctor' genuinely autistic?

Yes, the character Shaun Murphy in 'The Good Doctor' is portrayed as having autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and savant syndrome. The show depicts his challenges with social interactions, sensory sensitivities, reliance on routines, and exceptional memory, aligning with common characteristics of autism. The portrayal was researched thoroughly, with consultation from experts and input from individuals on the autism spectrum, and is generally considered a genuine effort to represent autism sensitively. Notably, Freddie Highmore, the actor who plays Shaun, does not have autism himself, but he researched and prepared to accurately portray the character. While the series aims to raise awareness and provide a nuanced view of autism, some critics note it may oversimplify or dramatize certain traits for storytelling purposes.

Additional Insights

Trait	Description	Media Representation	Expert Input
Social communication challenges	Difficulties in understanding social cues and emotional expressions	Showing Shaun’s literal interpretations and social awkwardness	Consultation with autism experts and individuals on spectrum
Sensory sensitivities	Overload or distraction caused by loud noises and bright lights	Scenes with sensory overload, such as noisy ER episodes	Use of personal stories from autistic consultants
Savant skills	Extraordinary memory and problem-solving abilities	Celebrated as Shaun’s medical genius	Research and expert interviews on savant syndrome
Depicted behaviors and thought processes	Visual graphics to illustrate Shaun’s internal perception	Visual overlays and diagrams for medical decisions	Critical feedback on stereotypical portrayal

Ultimately, 'The Good Doctor' strives to champion a more understanding view of autism but continues to navigate challenges in fully capturing the diversity within the spectrum.

Critical Perspectives and Challenges in Autism Representation

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

The portrayal of autism in 'The Good Doctor' has played a significant role in shaping how the public perceives and understands autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By showcasing Shaun Murphy's abilities, challenges, and unique traits, the show has helped foster a more nuanced view of autistic individuals, emphasizing that they can thrive professionally and contribute meaningfully to society.

Involving experts and autistic consultants in the show's development has contributed to a depiction that attempts to be both respectful and realistic. This has led to increased awareness, encouraging viewers to consider autism beyond stereotypes and recognize the diversity within the spectrum.

However, the show’s focus on traits like savant syndrome and social difficulties sometimes risks reinforcing simplified notions of autism. Critics argue that such portrayals can lead to misconceptions, but overall, 'The Good Doctor' has been credited with reducing stigma and promoting inclusivity, helping audiences see autistic individuals in a more empathetic and comprehensive light.

Does the show's portrayal rely on stereotypes or misconceptions?

While 'The Good Doctor' has made efforts to depict autism thoughtfully, it still faces criticism for occasionally leaning into stereotypes. The character of Shaun Murphy, for instance, is often portrayed with exaggerated savant skills, such as exceptional visualizing abilities, which are not representative of all autistic people.

Additionally, some traits displayed—such as social awkwardness, sensitivity to sounds, and repetitive behaviors—are portrayed in ways that can oversimplify or dramatize autism, failing to capture the true diversity of experiences across the spectrum.

Although the inclusion of an autistic actor in the final season marked progress, critics feel the show has more work to do in representing the full range of autistic identities without resorting to clichés. Authenticity remains a challenge, highlighting the ongoing need for more inclusive voice and nuanced storytelling.

The role of autistic voices in media

Authentic representation depends heavily on the voices of autistic individuals. 'The Good Doctor' has taken steps—most notably involving autistic consultant Coby Bird and including autistic actor Kayla Cromer—but there is still a gap between representation and authentic storytelling.

Increasing autistic involvement in writing, directing, and consulting processes can improve portrayals, ensuring they reflect real experiences rather than stereotypes. Such participation helps mitigate misconceptions and highlights the diversity within autism.

Moving forward, media creators are encouraged to prioritize genuine autistic voices, promote varied perspectives, and avoid simplifying narratives. This approach fosters better understanding and greater respect, moving beyond superficial portrayals toward richer, more accurate stories about autism.

Aspect	Current Practice	Recommendations	Additional Notes
Representation	Occasional inclusion of autistic actors	Broader involvement of autistic creatives	More genuine voices needed
Traits Depicted	Focus on savant skills and social challenges	Showcase diversity of experiences	Avoid stereotypes and generalizations
Public Impact	Increased awareness and empathy	Deeper understanding of individual differences	Promoting an inclusive narrative

By addressing these aspects, media can ensure more accurate and respectful representations of autism, ultimately enriching public perception and supporting autistic communities.

The Future of Autism Representation in Media

The importance of authentic autistic voices

Authentic representation involves including voices of autistic individuals in the creation and storytelling process. Their insights ensure portrayals are accurate, respectful, and diverse.

When autistic people contribute directly to scripts, characters, and production, stories tend to reflect the true range of experiences and reduce stereotypes. This shift allows viewers to see a broader, more nuanced view of autism.

Diverse portrayals of autism

Autism is a spectrum with many different traits and talents. Media often focus on savant skills, which not all autistic individuals have. It's crucial to showcase various experiences—from social challenges to unique strengths—without assuming one size fits all.

Including autistic actors and consultants from different backgrounds enriches stories and anchors them in reality. Such diversity promotes understanding and acceptance across society.

Upcoming projects and evolving standards

Recently, there’s been a move toward more authentic portrayals. New shows are involving autistic creators and consultants from the start. This trend helps set higher standards for accuracy and sensitivity.

Increased awareness and advocacy continue to push the industry toward inclusivity. The goal is to produce content that not only entertains but also educates and promotes neurodiversity.

Aspect	Current Trends	Future Directions	Notes
Representation	More autistic actors and advisors	Greater inclusion and leadership	Aims for genuine storytelling
Depiction	Focus on strengths and challenges	Broader spectrum of experiences	Avoiding stereotypes
Impact	Raising awareness, reducing stigma	Promoting societal acceptance	Continuous evolution in standards

The Role of Autistic Actors and Authentic Voices

Does the actor who plays Shaun Murphy in 'The Good Doctor' have autism?

Freddie Highmore, who portrays Shaun Murphy, does not have autism himself. He has clarified that he does not have an autism diagnosis but is committed to portraying the character authentically. Highmore’s research involved extensive consultation with experts and individuals with autism, including family members, to understand his character better.

The significance of casting autistic actors

Including autistic actors in media productions is crucial for authentic representation. Autistic performers bring firsthand experiences that can help portray autism more realistically and respectfully. Their participation helps to dispel stereotypes and provides audiences with a genuine perspective on neurodiversity.

The benefits of authentic representation

Authentic depiction of autistic characters fosters better understanding and acceptance. When autistic actors lead the portrayal, it enriches storytelling by providing authentic insights into their experiences. Representation also encourages societal inclusion and supports visibility for autistic individuals, emphasizing that autism does not define a person’s worth or abilities.

Challenges faced by autistic performers

Despite the importance of authentic representation, autistic actors often face barriers such as limited opportunities, stereotypes, and a lack of roles specifically written for them. Casting directors may overlook these actors due to misconceptions about their acting abilities or misunderstandings about their needs. Encouragingly, more initiatives and advocacy groups are working to improve access and promote autistic talent in the performing arts.

Aspect	Challenges	Opportunities	Example
Authentic Casting	Limited roles for autistic actors	Growing awareness and advocacy for inclusion	Coby Bird’s appearance on 'The Good Doctor' as an autistic actor
Representation in Media	Stereotyping and superficial portrayals	Increased use of autistic voices in writing	Final seasons including autistic actors like Kayla Cromer
Professional Opportunities	Lack of access and biases in the acting industry	Programs and initiatives supporting autistic actors	Autism Speaks’ events supporting autistic performers

Including autistic actors and voices in media is not just about representation—it's about ensuring portrayals are true to lived experiences. As more stories are told from authentic perspectives, society moves towards greater understanding and appreciation of neurodiversity.

Conclusion: Striving for More Accurate and Inclusive Autism Portrayals

The portrayal of autism in media remains a complex challenge. 'The Good Doctor' has made significant strides in bringing visibility to autistic characters, especially by showing a professional setting where an autistic surgeon excels, highlighting strengths alongside challenges. However, critics and autism community members have pointed out notable shortcomings. The show's reliance on stereotypes and lack of authentic autistic voices in its early seasons have fueled concerns about oversimplification and inaccuracy. While the series has evolved, including an autistic actor in later episodes, it still offers room for more genuine representation.

Authentic portrayals are crucial because they foster better understanding, reduce stereotypes, and respect the diversity of experiences within the autism community. Genuine stories that reflect real-life complexities can challenge misconceptions and promote inclusion.

Moving forward, including more autistic actors and consultants, and showcasing a wider range of autistic experiences beyond savant syndrome and social difficulties, are essential steps. Embracing diverse voices and stories will help media create richer, more accurate portrayals, ultimately contributing to a society that values neurodiversity.

Final Thoughts

'The Good Doctor' has played a notable role in raising awareness about autism, showcasing both challenges and strengths. While it has made strides toward more sensitive portrayals, concerns about stereotypes and lack of diversity remain. True progress will come from including authentic autistic voices, diverse stories, and more autistic performers in media. Continued efforts toward realistic representation are essential for fostering understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.

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 - Time Magazine
• 'The Good Doctor' actor with autism talks about dream role
• Shaun Murphy: Autism Representation in "The Good Doctor"
• Shaun Murphy (The Good Doctor) - Wikipedia
• A Critical Autism Analysis of The Good Doctor - Blossom ABA Therapy
• Autistic Adults Review The Good Doctor - Autism Ontario
• Is ABC's 'The Good Doctor' Based on a True Story? - Distractify