Asperger's Syndrome in The Movie Forrest Gump

Asperger's Traits in Forrest Gump: An Unspoken Narrative

Forrest Gump, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a film that has won over the hearts of countless people since it hit theaters in 1994. Starring Tom Hanks as the lovable Forrest Gump, the movie takes us through various historical events and personal hurdles. Though celebrated for its heartwarming story, there's an underlying layer that suggests Forrest might have traits of Asperger's Syndrome. Let’s dive into how the movie subtly paints this picture.

Social Struggles

One big thing about Asperger's is struggling with social stuff, and boy, does Forrest show this throughout the film. He just doesn't get social cues sometimes, leading to some pretty funny or awkward moments. Remember when he joins the army? The drill sergeant asks him why he's running, and Forrest just says, "I just felt like running." It's innocent but kind of offbeat socially. That right there lines up with what experts say about Asperger's: difficulties in social interactions and nonverbal communication (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Passionate Pursuits

Folks with Asperger's often dive deep into specific interests. For Forrest, it's all about running. From a young age, he discovers he's good at it, and it becomes his thing throughout the movie. He even ends up at the Olympics because of it! This kind of focused passion is something you see a lot with Asperger’s traits (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). It shows how someone can turn their keen interest into something amazing.

Dealing with Change

Forrest also sticks to routines like glue and finds change tough to handle. His life has a certain order that gives him comfort. But then things shake up when he gets drafted or decides to run across the country. These changes stress him out big time—again linking back to Asperger's (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

A Subtle Portrayal

Interestingly enough, the movie never outright says Forrest has Asperger's Syndrome. Some critics just call him "simple-minded," but if you look closer, you'll see those nuances that hint otherwise. So what's the big deal here? Well, showing a character like Forrest in such a famous film shines a light on Asperger's Syndrome for many people who might not know much about it.

Implications and Understanding

By bringing a character like Forrest into such a beloved movie, there's potential to break down stereotypes and help folks understand more about Asperger's. You watch Forrest do incredible things despite challenges—he’s proof that having Asperger’s doesn’t limit one's ability to succeed or contribute meaningfully to society.

In wrapping this all up: "Forrest Gump" gives us more than just a sweet story; it offers insights into a condition that many live with every day. Through his social quirks, passions, and struggles with change, we get a glimpse of what having traits of Asperger’s might be like. And maybe—it helps us all be a bit more empathetic towards those walking different paths.

References

• American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington: American Psychiatric Publishing.
• Zemeckis, R., Finerman, W., & Starkey, S. (Producers), & Zemeckis, R. (Director). (1994). Forrest Gump [Motion picture]. United States: Paramount Pictures.
• Murray Pomerance (2006). Color Monitors: The Black Face of Technology in America.
• Dylann Thrush-Goodwin (2021). Neurodiversity in Film: A Critical Examination of Autism Representation on Screen.