Autism in contemporary TV shows: A qualitative study of the impact of educators perceptions on neurodiverse learners

The perceptions nondisabled form from viewing autistic characters in TV can influence their perception of autistic learners. Thematic analysis informed by the disability studies framework reveals that modern-day TV shows feature common autistic stereotypes less representative of the autistic population. Such stereotypes create irreversible incorrect perceptions and beliefs in educators that hurt real autistic students and their community. Then, educators must view TV shows with a critical lens so that they do not form inaccurate perceptions of autistic learners.