Date of Award
5-2026
Degree Type
Masters Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
School
Communication
Committee Chair
Dr. Mohammed Rashid
Committee Chair School
Communication
Committee Member 2
Dr. David R. Davies
Committee Member 2 School
Communication
Committee Member 3
Dr. Fei Xue
Committee Member 3 School
Communication
Abstract
This study examines how contemporary films (2015-2025) construct ideologies about autism and difference through representational practices. The research investigates a purposefully sampled corpus of feature films featuring autistic characters. Data were collected through close textual analysis of narrative structures, dialogue, and cinematic techniques. Findings reveal persistent reliance on the savant stereotype and several caregiver-centered narratives that privilege neurotypical perspectives. The study illustrates how autism representation functions as a site of ideological struggle, while identifying storytelling choices that both enable and resist dominant framings and contribute to ethically responsible cultural production.
Copyright
Abril Escobal Porta
Recommended Citation
Escobal Porta, Abril, "Screening Difference: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Autism in Contemporary Film" (2026). Master's Theses. 1193.
https://aquila.usm.edu/masters_theses/1193
Included in
Broadcast and Video Studies Commons, Communication Technology and New Media Commons, Critical and Cultural Studies Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Health Communication Commons, Other Film and Media Studies Commons