Constructed representation: Finding autism in Star Trek
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Autistic representation in media is often restricted by stereotyped, negative portrayals of autistic traits. Autistic fans frequently create their own representation through methodical and creative interpretations of characters that were not originally intended to be autistic but who seem to experience the world in an autistic manner. Through an examination of the Star Trek franchise fandom, this "constructed representation" is demonstrated as an alternative way that disabled people find representation in a media landscape that so often excludes them.
Author: Dana Brand
Institution: Signum University
Language: English
Subfield: Sociology and Political Science
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Reduced inequalities
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7164752829