ABC’s The Good Doctor has garnered praise for its portrayal of Dr. Shaun Murphy, a surgeon with autism and savant syndrome.
The show’s creators and Freddie Highmore, who plays Shaun, have worked diligently to bring authenticity and respect to the character. However, as much as the series highlights the struggles and triumphs of living with autism, it misses an important opportunity to explore the broader reality of developmental disability services—a critical aspect of life for many individuals with similar conditions.
Shaun Murphy’s journey is undoubtedly inspiring. He rises above societal expectations, navigating personal and professional challenges in a field that demands perfection. While this narrative is essential for breaking stereotypes, it often isolates Shaun’s experience from the systemic support that individuals with developmental disabilities rely on in the real world.
Employment Services: Programs that help individuals find meaningful work and provide accommodations for neurodivergent employees are rarely discussed.
Advocacy Groups: Organizations that assist individuals and their families in navigating healthcare, education, and employment systems are an integral part of the real-life experience for many. Access to Care: Long waiting lists, financial barriers, and regional disparities often make it difficult for individuals to access critical services—a challenge the show largely ignores.
By not addressing these realities, The Good Doctor risks perpetuating a narrow narrative that equates success with exceptional ability. While Shaun’s character is remarkable, his journey doesn’t reflect the diversity of experiences within the autism community. Not every individual will become a surgeon or achieve extraordinary professional success—and that’s okay. Success should be measured by personal growth, happiness, and the ability to live a life of dignity, regardless of societal expectations.
There is an opportunity for The Good Doctor to expand its storytelling. Introducing characters who rely on developmental disability services could add depth and realism to the series. Whether through patients at the hospital or friends in Shaun’s life, these stories could shed light on the systemic challenges faced by millions of individuals and families. Additionally, the show could explore Shaun’s interactions with these services, emphasizing how they play a role in his own development. Highlighting the role of mentors, therapists, or advocacy groups in Shaun’s journey could help paint a more complete picture of life with autism.
While The Good Doctor has been instrumental in raising awareness about autism, it misses the chance to delve into the essential services that many rely on. By broadening its scope, the show could not only enhance its narrative but also contribute to a more inclusive and accurate representation of developmental disabilities.
