TANG: We need accurate representation of disabled people in media
What we see in movies and television shapes how we view the world — for people with disabilities, limited or inaccurate representation in media can mean facing stereotypes instead of understanding. Media holds the power to influence public perception, but people with disabilities are often either absent from the screen or portrayed in ways that reinforce harmful tropes.
This lack of real representation affects not only how society perceives disability but also how people with disabilities see themselves. Accurate and diverse portrayals of disability are essential for breaking down stereotypes, fostering inclusion and promoting a genuine understanding of their lived experiences.
Misrepresentation in media often leads to harmful stereotypes about people with disabilities, oversimplifying their experiences and reinforcing inaccurate beliefs.
Studies emphasize the significant role of films in shaping beliefs, opinions, stereotypes and attitudes. Movies can reinforce or challenge existing gender and ethnic stereotypes, shift societal perspectives toward marginalized groups and encourage new ways of thinking about critical issues.
For example, films about HIV have increased empathy for individuals living with the condition, TV shows featuring transgender characters have encouraged more accepting attitudes toward the transgender community and depictions of mental illness in movies have impacted public awareness and understanding.
A well-known example is "Rent," which brought mainstream attention to the struggles faced by people living with HIV/AIDS while also emphasizing themes of love, resilience and community.
But many portrayals show disabled individuals as helpless, dependent or "inspirational" just for overcoming their challenges. For example, in the movie "Forrest Gump," the titular character, who has a mild intellectual disability, is depicted as needing constant support, particularly from Jenny, who acts as his caretaker.
While the movie shows Gump as a kind-hearted individual, it also reinforces the idea that people with disabilities cannot lead independent lives. Instead of portraying Gump as a fully developed person with his own thoughts and desires, the film focuses on his ability to inspire others by simply "overcoming" his disability.
This narrow perspective ignores the fact that disability is just one aspect of a person's identity and that people with disabilities, like everyone else, have the right to make their own choices and live their own lives.
By creating one-dimensional disabled characters, these types of portrayals reinforce a stereotype that people with disabilities are inherently dependent or need to be "fixed." This not only limits how society views disabled individuals but also impacts how those individuals view themselves, shaping their self-worth and opportunities in ways that are not based on their full potential.
Positive representation in the media plays a vital role in breaking down stigma and normalizing disability by showing people with disabilities as fully developed individuals. The TV series "Atypical" follows Sam Gardner, a teenager on the autism spectrum, as he navigates his everyday life, relationships and the challenges of growing up.
Rather than focusing solely on his diagnosis, the show highlights his desire to live independently, pursue his passions and work through the complexities of family dynamics. Gardner is portrayed as more than his condition — he is a young man with unique challenges and strengths, much like anyone else.
The show also explores the experiences of his family, showing how they are affected by Gardner's journey. By presenting him as a character with depth and individuality, "Atypical" goes against the common portrayal of autistic people as unable to connect with others or lead fulfilling lives. This kind of representation normalizes disability and encourages viewers to see people with disabilities as just another part of society, fostering understanding and empathy.
Many may argue that the primary purpose of media is entertainment, not advocacy. While entertainment is an important aspect, media also serves an educational role. It has the power to shape public opinion and influence societal attitudes.
For example, something as simple as a lip gloss going viral on TikTok can lead to a brand selling out and gaining exposure. This demonstrates how media can influence trends and perceptions, showing its impact beyond just entertainment.
With something as important as failing to include diverse representations, the media misses an opportunity to educate audiences and debunk harmful stereotypes. Neglecting representation not only limits the quality of content but also leaves out important perspectives.
Others may argue that because people with disabilities represent a small minority, there is little demand for representation in media, meaning it is not necessary for mainstream entertainment. But that is not correct.
According to the World Health Organization, 16 percent of the world's population experiences a significant disability, thus making it a substantial and diverse group. Excluding people with disabilities ignores a larger audience and limits the media's potential to be more inclusive and relatable.
Media representation of people with disabilities is essential for changing societal attitudes and promoting inclusion. Accurate representation not only benefits the disabled community but also enriches the media, creating stories that reflect the true diversity of human experiences.
Kelly Tang is a junior in the Rutgers Business School majoring in Finance and Supply Chain Management. Tang’s column, “Don’t Get Me Started,” runs on alternate Wednesdays.
*Columns, cartoons, letters and commentaries do not necessarily reflect the views of the Targum Publishing Company or its staff.
YOUR VOICE | The Daily Targum welcomes submissions from all readers. Letters to the editor must be between 350 and 600 words. Commentaries must be between 600 and 900 words. All authors must include their name, phone number, class year and college affiliation or department to be considered for publication. Please submit via email to oped@dailytargum.com and eic@dailytargum.com to be considered for publication.
