Representation of Neurodivergence in Media

“Every child deserves to see themselves reflected positively in stories.”

Representation of neurodivergence in media is important, it can help neurodivergent people to see themselves in characters, and feel seen in return. Plus it can help neurotypical people learn about and understand the experience of neurodivergent people.

With that in mind, here’s a list of positive portrayals of Autism and ADHD in books, TV and Film.

ADHD in TV & Film

For young kids:

Paris and Pups

I have to be honest, when I started looking for good ADHD representation I did not expect to find it in a TV show based on Paris Hilton and her pets... But actually this show features multiple characters with ADHD and was created alongside understood.org who also provide an accompanying free guide for parents on how to talk to children about ADHD.

For teenagers:

Charlie Bartlett

This film follows Charlie, who after being diagnosed with ADHD decides to become an unofficial therapist for his classmates. This film focuses more on the struggles that Charlie faces due to his ADHD.

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief

The main character Percy has ADHD and dyslexia, and the story reflects how he is able to use his ADHD traits to overcome challenges which the author intended to inspire young people.

For adults:

Julie & Julia

Whilst ADHD is not explicitly stated, lots of people relate to Julie Powell who displays many ADHD characteristics.

Everything, Everywhere All At Once

One of the directors of the film discovered that he had ADHD as a result of making this film, although like Julie & Julia, ADHD is not explicitly mentioned in the film itself.

ADHD In Books

For key stage 1:

Loud by Rose Robbins

Abigail finds it tricky to do what's expected of her school, but she loves singing and writing songs.

Cloud Boy by Greg Stobbs

A story about Bobby, who likes to think about lots of different things at once.

For key stage 2

Cally and Jimmy: Twins Together by Zoe Antoniades

The adventure of twins, one of whom has ADHD.

Show Us Who You Are by Elle McNicoll

A sci-fi story which also has autism representation as well.

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Slightly cheating as we included this in the TV section, but the book series is also great!

For Teenagers:

The Extraordinaries by TJ Klune

An LGBTQ+ coming-of-age story about a fanboy with ADHD and the heroes he loves.

Lights Camera Disaster by Erin Dionne

A teenager who loves making movies but struggles with school.

Autism in TV and Films

Pablo - for very young children, Pablo follows a young autistic boy as he and his imaginary friends solve the mysteries and problems of life. The series features a voice cast and writing team who are all autistic.

Atypical - for teenagers, Atypical follows an autistic teenage boy as he seeks more independence in his life, and his family's reactions to this.

The A Word - for adults, The A Word follows a family after their youngest son is diagnosed as autistic, and their journey around this diagnosis.

Autism in Books

A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll - About an 11-year-old autistic girl, Addie, who’s trying to establish a memorial for the witch trials in her hometown.

The Leap Cycle series by Patience Agbabi - About a group of time-travelling friends leaping across historical eras to solve crimes.

The Underdogs series by Chris Bonnello - A near-future war series, where teenagers who escaped an attack on their special school become the last hope of freeing the British people.

Geek Girl by Holly Smale - About a 15 year old girl who becomes a model and has to deal with bullies and fame.

As you can see this is a very non-exhaustive list and there are no doubt loads more great books, TV shows and films out there which show the experience of divergent people.

What other portrayals of neurodivergence in media do you think are good? Leave us a comment and let us know, we would love to hear your recommendations!