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Deliberately Queer Journal

Abstract

This paper explores the representation of neurodiversity in popular media, with a specific focus on the television show New Girl. Through a critical analysis of Season 4, Episode 2 ("Dice"), I examine the episode alongside academic and online discussions surrounding female Autistic representation, dating while neurodivergent, and how the character Jessica Day (played by Zooey Deschanel) is often interpreted as Autistic by fan communities. The analysis highlights the pressure on Autistic individuals—both fictional and real—to adopt neurotypical behaviors for the comfort of others, particularly in online dating contexts. I also explore the importance of fan-created content in shaping conversations around character identities, whether canonical or headcanons. The paper argues that further research is needed on neurodivergent identity performance in dating apps. Finally, I assert the need for more attention to how sitcoms influence societal attitudes toward minoritized groups and propose a shift away from a binary of "good" versus "bad" representation, advocating instead for a more nuanced understanding of representation as either helpful and authentic or superficial and performative.

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