Breaking the Stigma around Autism: an Interactive Art Exhibition
Breaking the Stigma around Autism: an Interactive Art Exhibition
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Date
2023-12
Authors
DeGrie, Jillian
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University Honors College, Middle Tennessee State University
Abstract
Neurodivergence affects an ever-growing percentage of the population. For years,
the definition of autism was based solely on the experience of nerdy white boys.
Modern-day research on autism is finally beginning to include people of other ages,
genders, and races. Thus, more people are being diagnosed today than ever before.
However, the stigma surrounding autism has not adjusted accordingly. Inaccurate
representations in the media, preexisting stereotypes, and the taboo surrounding mental
health discussions has prevented an accurate understanding of autism by neurotypical
people. This project is my attempt to destigmatize autism through an education-based
approach. I created an interactive art exhibition that allows the viewer to experience
aspects of autism themselves to better learn how the disability affects autistic people.
This, in turn, opened the door for discussions about basic human differences and mental
health, a conversation that benefits everyone, neurotypical or neurodivergent.