In recent years, media representation of neurodivergence has evolved, moving beyond one-dimensional caricatures to more nuanced portrayals. Yet harmful stereotypes and reductive tropes persist, often overshadowing authentic narratives. This article explores how film, TV, and literature are progressing in depicting neurodivergent experiences—and why genuine inclusion demands centring real stories over tired clichés.

The Persistence of Harmful Tropes

From the ‘genius savant’ to the ‘tragic victim’, neurodivergent characters have long been confined to narrow archetypes. These tropes reduce complex lived experiences to plot devices: autistic individuals portrayed as emotionless robots, ADHDers as chaotic comic relief, or dyslexic characters as symbols of ‘overcoming adversity’. Such framing ignores intersectionality—neurodivergence intersects with race, gender, and class, yet media often defaults to white, male-centric stories.

Consider the ‘inspiration porn’ trope, where a neurodivergent person’s achievements are exaggerated to motivate non-divergent audiences. This reinforces the idea that worth is tied to productivity rather than inherent humanity. Similarly, the ‘superpower’ narrative, while initially celebratory, risks dismissing daily challenges faced by those with conditions like autism or synaesthesia.

Progress in Modern Storytelling

Recent years have seen encouraging shifts. Shows like Heartbreak High (featuring an authentically portrayed autistic character) and Everything’s Gonna Be Okay prioritise input from neurodivergent writers and actors. Documentaries like Chris Packham’s Inside Our Autistic Minds amplify first-person perspectives, challenging the notion that neurodivergent individuals need neurotypical ‘voices’ to explain their experiences.

Key improvements include:

• Collaborative creation: Projects like BBC’s Astrid & Lilly Save the World consult neurodivergent communities during development.
• Diverse representation: Characters like Elle Argent in Heartstopper (ADHD and autism) showcase intersectional identities beyond the stereotypical white male.
• Genre variety: Neurodivergent characters now appear in rom-coms, sci-fi, and thrillers—not just issue-driven dramas.

The Gap Between Intention and Execution

Despite progress, well-meaning efforts often stumble. Tokenistic inclusion—such as adding a neurodivergent character solely to ‘tick a diversity box’—can feel performative. For example, Netflix’s Atypical faced criticism for initially centring a neurotypical actor’s portrayal of autism, though later seasons addressed feedback by involving autistic consultants.

Another issue is the ‘trauma plot’ overkill. While depicting challenges is valid, fixating on meltdowns or bullying risks defining neurodivergent lives by struggle. Media frequently overlooks joy, humour, or mundane realities—like the satisfaction of stimming or the creativity of a hyperfocused ADHD mind.

Why Authenticity Matters Beyond Representation

Accurate portrayals aren’t just about fairness—they shape public understanding. A 2022 study found that exposure to stereotypical autism depictions increased audiences’ likelihood to associate neurodivergence with incompetence. Conversely, nuanced portrayals correlate with reduced stigma and greater workplace inclusivity.

Authenticity also empowers neurodivergent audiences. Seeing characters who mirror their experiences—without being pitied or exoticised—validates identity. Take the TikTok-viral scene from Extraordinary Attorney Woo, where Woo’s detailed explanation of her thought process resonated deeply with autistic viewers who’d never seen their internal experiences visualised.

Steps Toward Meaningful Change

Closing the gap between tropes and truth requires systemic shifts:

• Hire neurodivergent talent: Beyond actors, include neurodivergent writers, directors, and sensitivity readers at all production stages.
• Embrace non-linear narratives: Avoid reducing characters to their neurodivergence. Let them be complex individuals who happen to be autistic, dyspraxic, etc.
• Challenge inspiration porn: Highlight everyday achievements without framing them as ‘remarkable despite disability’.
• Educate audiences: Use companion materials (post-episode discussions, creator commentaries) to contextualise portrayals and address misconceptions.

While media has made strides in neurodivergent representation, the journey toward authentic inclusivity remains unfinished. By moving beyond tired tropes, prioritising real stories, and involving neurodivergent voices at every level, creators can craft narratives that resonate truthfully—not just check diversity quotas. As audiences, supporting these efforts through critical engagement and demanding better representation ensures media reflects the rich tapestry of human cognition.