The good doctor

The good doctor

a representation of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Start

· What is Autism

· The Good Doctor : synopsis

· How is ASD described in the serie

· Thoughts of people with ASD

Index

· Other shows representing ASD

· Quizz

01

Autism Spectrum disorder : what is it ?

It is a developmental disability that can be genetic or not. Other causes or not known yet by scientists. People with ASD (Autism Syndrom Disorder) may think, behave and communicate differently than neurotypicals. It can differ a lot from a person to another, some people with ASD have really advanced communication skills while others don't like to talk. Some may be extrovert and other really introvert and prefer their personal space.

Facts about ASD

• One of the symptoms is the difference in social interactions, and also the repetitive behaviors or interests they can have.
• It affects 2% of children in the US, but is often late diagnosed because psychologists try to identify abnormal behaviours while autism is different in every person having it and can emerge late.

• ASD includes different categories like Autism, Asperger's syndrom, childhood disintegrative disorder... That's why it is called "spectrum" and not just autism, because it varies according to the symptoms.

The Good Doctor : synopsis

Freddie Highmore plays in this serie Shaun Murphy, a young surgeon with autistic and savant syndrom*. He leaved his small town to come to the city and work in the prestigious St. Bonaventure hospital. Although some doctors were skeptical from him joining the team, he works hard to prove that his incredible skills will help them save lives.

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How is ASD described in the show

• As he has social interaction issues, he sometimes says things that can sound rude or offensive because he doesn't realize it may offend people
• He is a kind person with a big heart and has empathy

• Shaun has not only ASD but also savant syndrom so he can perfectly see the bodies' organs and how they work
• He is very dedicated to what he does when he starts something and is passionate

Thoughts of people with ASD

• Many people with ASD relate to Shaun even though they don't have savant syndrom.
• They say that his manners (social akwardness, lack of eye contact), and communication issues are realistic
• They can relate to the way people treat them, as some want to stop them from doing what they do just because they are autistic

• He has a passion that occupies all his time and thoughts like many autistic people
• Some say that it is not realistic because people will think that every autistic person also has savant syndrom
• Producers may not understand the individuality of each person on the spectrum

Other shows that represent ASD

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Answer these questions

The answers are written in the "+ info" section

1. What does "ASD" mean and what is it ?

4. Which syndroms does he have ?

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5. Do people with ASD think it is realistic ?

2. Which categories does "ASD" include ?

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3. What does the main character do for a living ?

6. Do you have examples of other shows that represent ASD ?

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