What is seen in media doesn’t necessarily mimic life for someone with Autism. As a result, some people are only aware of the gifted autistic, as they achieve more in society, and don’t consider the whole spectrum. In turn, Autism is seen as not a serious disability and sometimes a desired trait.
In addition, parents may keep children inside because of the fear that their children are not accepted in society and that support is hard to find. Even though this is getting better, it is still an issue for some families. In addition, an Autistic person requires a lot of care, attention and supervision. This is especially significant when looking at media’s representation of educational needs. Series like ‘Atypical’ often gloss over these needs of students with autism. In the other extreme the media show high level Autistic children as unteachable. In reality, while they need extra help, all autistic children can gain from education [1].
In the real world Autistic people struggle to understand and show their emotions. However, when the media presents this they often show it as an inability, rather than a challenge {2}. This is not necessarily true as in many ways it is a different way of reading people’s emotions and presenting their own feelings. If the other person understands how to interact, they can fully comprehend these emotions.
Another aspect not highlighted in the media is that many Autistic people, especially in adulthood, end up in care homes. Of these media examples only ‘Please Stand By Me’ addresses that issue and even then gives an overly positive view of these institutions. Whilst there are well-run care homes that focus the needs of Autistic people, in many cases they aren’t set up to provide the right type of care and the Autistic person doesn’t live a fulfilling life.
On a positive note despite the realities of Autism bringing many challenges, there has been an increase in awareness of the condition. Scientists are getting an improved understanding of the condition leading to more effective therapies such as targeted diets and medication. There is also the ability for families to share knowledge through social media allowing those who might not have previously had access to treatments to now do so. These changes are fantastic news for Autistic people yet progress is consistently frustratingly sluggish.
It is fundamental to know that Autistic children are like any child. They get upset, want to be loved, to play and most importantly of all to please the people they care about.
Jacob's Time 
Agreed – there seems to be a view that an autistic person is either totally incapable or totally a genius (often in one area), but there is a need to focus on what we all have in common ie the need to be loved and accepted, rather than differences.
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