Asperger's Syndrome in The Movie Forrest Gump

Forrest Gump, a critically acclaimed film directed by Robert Zemeckis, has captured the hearts of millions since its release in 1994. The movie follows the life of the titular character, Forrest Gump, played by Tom Hanks, as he navigates various historical events and personal challenges. While the film is celebrated for its heartwarming story, it also provides an intriguing portrayal of a character who displays traits consistent with Asperger's Syndrome. This essay will explore the depiction of Asperger's Syndrome in the movie Forrest Gump, highlighting the accuracy and implications of this portrayal.

One of the main characteristics associated with Asperger's Syndrome is social ineptitude, and Forrest's interactions with others throughout the film align with this trait. He often struggles to understand social cues, leading to moments of unintentional humor or awkwardness. For example, when Forrest is enlisted in the army and his drill sergeant asks him why he is running, he replies, "I just felt like running." This response, while innocent, showcases his difficulty grasping the expected social response in that situation. This portrayal is in line with the diagnostic criteria for Asperger's, which emphasize difficulties in social interactions and nonverbal communication (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

In addition to social difficulties, individuals with Asperger's Syndrome often exhibit intense interests in specific subjects. In Forrest Gump, this characteristic is exemplified through Forrest's passion for running. From a young age, Forrest discovers his talent for running, and this becomes a central theme throughout the movie. His dedication to running allows him to excel in the sport, ultimately leading him to participate in the Olympics. This intense interest and specialization align with the repetitive behaviors and fixated interests commonly observed in individuals with Asperger's (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Furthermore, Forrest's adherence to routines and difficulty with change are evident in the movie. He maintains a structured life, following a set routine that provides him with a sense of comfort and stability. His routines are disrupted when he is drafted into the army and later when he embarks on a cross-country running journey. These disruptions cause Forrest distress and highlight his struggle with adapting to change, another characteristic associated with Asperger's Syndrome (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

It is important to note that the depiction of Asperger's Syndrome in Forrest Gump is not explicitly stated in the movie. However, the portrayal of Forrest's behavior aligns closely with the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. While some critics argue that the film merely presents Forrest as a "simple-minded" character, a closer analysis reveals the nuances of his behavior and the consistent portrayal of Asperger's traits throughout the narrative.

The inclusion of a character with Asperger's Syndrome in a movie as popular as Forrest Gump holds significant implications. Firstly, it raises awareness about the disorder among a wide audience, potentially dispelling stereotypes and misconceptions. By presenting Forrest as a lovable and relatable character, the film promotes understanding and empathy towards individuals with Asperger's Syndrome. Moreover, the portrayal of Forrest's accomplishments demonstrates that individuals with Asperger's can excel and contribute to society in meaningful ways, challenging the notion that they are limited by their condition.

In conclusion, the movie Forrest Gump offers a compelling portrayal of a character who displays traits consistent with Asperger's Syndrome. Through Forrest's social difficulties, intense interests, and struggle with change, the film accurately captures the essence of this neurodevelopmental disorder. The inclusion of a character with Asperger's in such a popular movie holds significant implications for raising awareness and promoting understanding. By examining the portrayal of Asperger's in Forrest Gump, we gain insights into the challenges faced by individuals with this condition and the potential for their success and contributions to society.