URCAD Sneak Peek: Giuliana Weiss

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:54:51 -0400

Come see Giuliana's URCAD presentation starting Monday, April 18-24, online! You can interact with Giuliana and over 200 other presenters!

URCAD.umbc.edu

Presenter: Giuliana Weiss

Exploring Autistic America: Changing Perspectives of Autism Spectrum Disorder Throughout the 20th and 21st Centuries

Mentor: Elaine MacDougall (English)

Abstract:

The purpose of this project is to explore the changing perceptions of autism spectrum disorder in the United States throughout the 20th century and early 21st century, with a specific focus on how these perceptions have affected the lives and treatment of autistic individuals in America. From popular films like 1988’s Rain Man to Autism Speaks’ highly controversial short film “I am Autism,” the general public’s reaction to the condition we now refer to as autism spectrum disorder has been characterized by a lack of consistency and considerable confusion. By examining the complex relationship between the media and the public's perception of autism, we can gain a more complete understanding of where we, as a society, need to improve in regards to our treatment of neurodiverse and autistic individuals. Autism is not an illness to be “cured,” and by debunking myths about autism, critically analyzing fear-mongering tactics used in reference to autism, and centering autistic voices in our narratives, we can better recognize the importance of the autistic community and its place within the neurodiversity rights movement as a whole.