Autism as it is portrayed in ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.’
Open reaction to the depiction of autism in the film ‘What’s Eating Gilbert Grape.’
Discuss the extent to which the depiction is accurate, misleading, etc.
Discuss any myths and misconceptions of autism that are evident.
Discuss any positive or negative impact it could have for the autism community.
Examples include: Rapid prompting, mega vitamins, erlin lense glasses, gluten free diets, insurance legislation, parent describing struggling to find services, depiction of needs of adults, diagnostic change, etc.
Autism receives a great deal of attention in the media. As the incidence has increased, the attention has intensified. Characters with autism are depicted in books, TV shows, and movies. Articles on treatment abound. Speculation on etiology is rampant. Parents and educators are constantly sifting through a myriad of articles, programs, and anecdotes about autism and about people with autism.
In this assignment, examine one of these depictions, and react to it.
Specifically, we want you to link it to this course, view it through the lens of the information you have learned.
