America's Next Top Model Cycle 9 had Heather, a gal who was open about her diagnosis and may end up being a good spokeswoman for Aspergers. (Although eventually, the best "role models" for people on the spectrum may be those that people get to know first and then learn the diagnosis later.) Overall I was happy with her appearance on ANTM since she is a real person. Of course there were the obligatory "diary room" moments where she talked about her diagnosis, as did the other contestants. Her awkwardness was beneficial for posing with that "pretty-ugly" couture look. But she also had some challenges on- and off-set.

As a psuedo-aside, past contestant Isis played the "different" card, well, differently. No doubt the producers wanted a big "OMG she is a pre-op transgendered woman!" story-line but Isis played it pretty cool. She acknowledged her position - "I was born in the wrong body" - and admitted concern with posing situations that would be challenging for her (a swimsuit assignment out-of-water and a submerged-in-water shoot.) There was some "drama" via the other contestants' questions, but Isis herself was very matter-o-fact and didn't want to make a big deal about being born male. I respect that.

As I think about spectrum quirks, there is that fine line between wanting to say, "Yes, this is what someone on the spectrum can look like," versus just going about business. And so I wonder when people are brought in to television shows to portray a particular population.

In the Ausiello interview about her character, McDonnell laughs when asked if her character will "hook up" as so many Grey's Anatomy regulars do: "That's the furthest thing from her mind" she responds.

Interesting.

It may not appear that socially-awkward people want romance, or want friends. But it isn't for lack of wanting; it is for lack of ability. So many "checkboxes" on spectrum diagnostic charts include things about "no close friends" or "no desire to make friends." There is an assumption that folks want to play by themselves. But I don't think this is true. Sure, some kids on the spectrum need "down time" for which they want to be alone. But there is still desire for social communications and friendship.

It will definitely be interesting to see if "Dr. Virginia Dixon" is a character that I will be happy to see, or whether it will be another example that I'll have to dismiss as not accurate. The comments following the Ausiello interview are interesting: several people point out the multidimensionality of people with Aspergers (as with people overall.) One commenter says "If anyone can portray someone dealing Aspergers well and with dignity, it's Mary McDonnell."

Dignity. I like that.

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Update: Alas, "dignity" is not part of the equation. The first episode showed a very stereotyped version of Aspergers. The second episode went into insulting territory. The third episode showed Dr. Dixon thowing a temper tantrum. "Disappointing" doesn't even begin to cover my reaction to this portrayal - it is hurtful to the public's perception of autism.