Wicked, the renowned musical and movie adaptation, takes audiences on an extraordinary journey into the untold backstory of Elphaba and Galinda—the witches of Oz. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, the story unfolds against the backdrop of the land of Oz, offering a complex exploration of friendship, power, morality, and societal judgement. The narrative reimagines the classic tale of The Wizard of Oz, giving voice to the “Wicked Witch of the West” and the “Good Witch of the North,” revealing the layers of misunderstanding and humanity beneath their labels.
While Wicked does not explicitly address ADHD or neurodivergence, its rich characters and their struggles with rejection, emotional intensity, and societal expectations resonate strongly with elements of the ADHD experience. This analysis, undertaken for fun and a fresh perspective, explores Wicked through the lens of ADHD traits, offering insights into how the story can metaphorically align with the lived experiences of those navigating neurodivergence.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of the musical or curious about its deeper themes, this exploration seeks to highlight how the story’s characters, lyrics, and struggles reflect challenges like emotional dysregulation, masking, impulsivity, and more. It provides a unique framework for understanding ADHD traits while celebrating the artistry and emotional depth of Wicked.
Join us in reinterpreting this beloved tale through a lens that brings its hidden nuances to light!
Wicked = ADHD???
Is Wicked a euphemism for ADHD?
Wicked can be interpreted as a euphemism for the stigma often associated with the negative elements of ADHD or neurodivergence more broadly. The story of Elphaba (the “Wicked Witch”) and her journey aligns metaphorically with the struggles faced by individuals with ADHD, who often experience misunderstanding, rejection, and stigma due to traits that society perceives as “negative.”
THE CLUES
Central Themes of Wicked
Being "Different" as a Core Theme
- Elphaba’s green skin serves as a clear metaphor for being different or “othered.” Similarly, individuals with ADHD often feel isolated or misunderstood due to behaviours like impulsivity, hyperactivity, or inattentiveness.
- The public labels her as “wicked” without understanding her true motivations, reflecting how society can stigmatise neurodivergence by focusing on its challenges rather than its strengths.
Rejection and Ostracism
- Elphaba faces rejection from her family, peers, and authority figures because of her differences. This parallels the experiences of individuals with ADHD, who often encounter judgment for their inability to conform to societal norms.
- The label “wicked” represents a societal attempt to box her into a negative identity, much like how the struggles of ADHD (e.g., impulsivity or emotional dysregulation) are often viewed negatively without recognising their context or value.
Stigma Around Traits Associated with ADHD
- Impulsivity and Emotional Dysregulation: Elphaba’s impulsive actions and intense emotional responses are misunderstood as signs of her “wickedness” rather than expressions of her passion and values.
- Hyperfocus and Novelty Seeking: Her intense drive to fight injustice and explore her magic parallels traits of hyperfocus and a need for novelty, which can be misinterpreted as obsessive or reckless.
Masking and Camouflaging
- Elphaba initially tries to suppress her differences and conform to societal expectations, much like how individuals with ADHD may mask their symptoms to avoid stigma. Her eventual embrace of her true self in Defying Gravity can be seen as a rejection of these societal pressures.
Stigma as a Reflection of Societal Misunderstanding
- The word “wicked” becomes a symbol of how society fears or vilifies what it does not understand. Similarly, ADHD traits like impulsivity, hyperactivity, or inattentiveness are often stigmatised without recognising their underlying causes or the strengths they bring.
Seeking Validation and Self-Acceptance
- Both Elphaba and Galinda struggle with societal expectations and seek validation in different ways. Elphaba’s journey to self-acceptance and Galinda’s transformation into a compassionate leader mirror the path of embracing neurodivergence and breaking free from societal judgments.
Advocacy for Inclusion and Understanding
- Elphaba’s fight for the rights of Animals can be seen as a metaphor for advocating for understanding and inclusion for neurodivergent individuals. Her journey highlights the importance of seeing beyond labels and recognising the strengths and humanity of those who are different.
Wicked uses its narrative to challenge the concept of “wickedness” as a societal construct, much like how ADHD stigma is based on a misunderstanding of neurodivergent traits. By reframing Elphaba’s journey as one of empowerment, the story encourages audiences to question how we define and treat those who don’t fit conventional norms.
A summary
The evidence for ADHD
Wicked is a rich narrative that explores themes of identity, societal rejection, and personal empowerment. Through Elphaba and Galinda, the story provides a nuanced look at traits associated with ADHD and the stigma often attached to them. The characters’ journeys reflect the struggles and triumphs of embracing one’s differences, making Wicked a powerful metaphor for the neurodivergent experience.
Elphaba- Internally, Elphaba shows a constant drive for justice and fairness, often leading her to obsess over issues like the treatment of Animals.
Externally, her physical energy manifests in magical outbursts and passionate defiance.
Elphaba acts quickly and emotionally, often without fully considering the consequences. For instance, freeing the Lion cub was a morally driven but impulsive act.
Elphaba-She struggles with societal norms and mundane tasks, directing her focus to causes she finds meaningful, like her fight against the Wizard.
Early on, Galinda fails to grasp the deeper issues around her, such as Elphaba’s struggles and societal injustices, until her own moral awakening.
Elphaba- Her inability to regulate emotions is evident in moments of explosive anger and profound despair, such as during No Good Deed.
Galinda- She reacts emotionally to rejection, as seen in her response to Madame Morrible choosing Elphaba for sorcery tutoring.
Both characters display traits tied to RSD, commonly associated with ADHD:
Elphaba: Imposter Syndrome: She doubts her worth despite her exceptional abilities, particularly in relation to her family and societal expectations.
Self-Sabotage: Her intense focus on justice often alienates her from allies.
Sensitivity to Criticism: Elphaba reacts strongly to perceived slights, as seen in her strained interactions with peers and authority figures.
Galinda: Seeking Validation: Her obsession with societal approval reflects a deep need for external affirmation.
Perfectionism: Galinda’s desire to present herself as flawless drives her early behaviours but evolves as she becomes more authentic.
Elphaba: Her emotional intensity and impulsivity may metaphorically reflect hormonal influences, as her strongest reactions often align with moments of heightened stress or injustice.
Galinda: Her growth from superficiality to moral depth may symbolise a coming-of-age journey influenced by emotional and hormonal maturation.
Elphaba:
Her intense focus on justice could be seen as a form of compulsivity, a coping mechanism for managing her feelings of alienation.
Galinda:
Her obsession with appearances and popularity reflects a form of social addiction, driven by the need for external validation.
The narrative of Wicked metaphorically reflects the stigma associated with the perceived “negative” elements of ADHD:
Hyperactivity: Viewed as disruptive (Elphaba’s magical outbursts).
Inattention: Misinterpreted as a lack of care or focus (Elphaba’s rejection of societal norms).
Emotional Dysregulation: Misunderstood as instability (Elphaba’s passion and intensity).
The societal branding of Elphaba as “wicked” highlights how individuals with ADHD or neurodivergent traits are often misunderstood, labelled, or vilified.
Everyone Deserves a Chance to Fly: Unlocking Potential with ADHD"
This phrase used in the Movie Wicked can serve as a powerful foundation for messaging about ADHD, highlighting the importance of understanding, support and empowerment.
Dr Raffi
THE SONGS
Dancing through Life
ADHD Traits and Themes in “Dancing Through Life” from Wicked
The song “Dancing Through Life” captures behaviours and thought patterns that metaphorically align with core ADHD traits, such as impulsivity, inattention, emotional dysregulation, and rejection sensitivity. Through its characters and lyrics, the song illustrates the struggles and coping mechanisms often associated with ADHD, particularly within rigid societal structures like traditional education.
Impulsivity
Lyrics:
“Stop studying strife and learn to live ‘the unexamined life’.”
“Let’s go down to the Ozdust Ballroom. We’ll meet there later tonight.”
Analysis:
Fiyero’s carefree philosophy reflects impulsivity, prioritising immediate gratification over long-term reflection or consequences. This mirrors how individuals with ADHD may act on impulse to seek immediate reward or stimulation.
His spontaneous decision to gather everyone for a trip to the Ozdust Ballroom highlights a lack of planning, a common trait in ADHD.
Educational Misalignment and Rejection
Lyrics:
“The trouble with schools is they always try to teach the wrong lesson.”
“Believe me, I’ve been kicked out of enough of them to know.”
Analysis:
Mismatch Between ADHD and Traditional Education: Schools often emphasise conformity and structure, which can conflict with the creative and non-linear thinking associated with ADHD. Fiyero’s disdain for structured learning resonates with the frustration many ADHD individuals feel in traditional educational environments.
Feeling Marginalised: The phrase “kicked out” reflects the real-life consequences of being misunderstood for ADHD-related behaviours such as inattentiveness, impulsivity, or hyperactivity. This also evokes the rejection and alienation ADHD individuals often experience.
Avoidance and Confidence
Lyrics:
“Life is fraught-less when you’re thoughtless.”
“Those who don’t try never look foolish.”
Analysis:
Avoidance as a Coping Mechanism: Avoiding thought and effort reflects a common ADHD coping strategy to sidestep the stress or fear of failure. This avoidance often stems from repeated criticism or perceived inadequacy.
Fear of Failure and Low Confidence: Fiyero’s assertion that “those who don’t try never look foolish” highlights the fear of judgement and rejection sensitivity. This can lead individuals to avoid risks entirely, prioritising safety over ambition.
Emotional Dysregulation
Lyrics:
“Now that we’ve met one another, it’s clear we deserve each other.”
“Oh, Boq! I think you’re wonderful!”
Analysis:
Characters like Nessarose and Boq display heightened emotional responses. Nessarose’s quick shift from rejection to attachment reflects emotional dysregulation, often seen in ADHD.
Rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) is evident in how characters interpret social interactions, such as Nessarose assuming pity rather than genuine interest from Boq.
Hyperfocus on Enjoyment
Lyrics:
“Dancing through life, swaying and sweeping, and always keeping cool.”
“Life’s more painless for the brainless.”
Analysis:
Fiyero’s fixation on dancing and socialising reflects the ADHD trait of hyperfocus on rewarding or stimulating activities. This reward-driven focus often distracts from responsibilities or meaningful pursuits.
Masking and camouflaging
Reflecting the tendency of individuals, particularly those with ADHD or similar conditions, to suppress or alter their authentic selves to fit societal norms or expectations:
Galinda’s Masking:
Lyric:
“And I only wish there were something I could do for her to repay her.”
Context: Galinda’s words to Nessarose reflect her attempt to maintain her image as generous and kind, masking her actual intentions of manipulating Boq into asking Nessarose to the dance.
Analysis:
Social Facade: Galinda’s actions are motivated by her desire to uphold her status and avoid confrontation. She prioritises appearing benevolent, even if her actions are insincere.
Conforming to Expectations:
This reflects masking behaviour, where individuals suppress their true feelings or motivations to align with social expectations, even at the cost of authenticity.
Lyric:
“It’s really-uh-sharp. Don’t you think?”
Context: Galinda gives Elphaba the hat as a faux gesture of kindness, intending to mock her. However, Elphaba accepts it graciously, forcing Galinda to double down on her social performance.
Analysis:
Covering Insecurity: Galinda’s awkward phrasing reflects her struggle to maintain the facade when her actions don’t go as planned. This mirrors the pressure to maintain social compliance, even when it causes discomfort or guilt.
Projection of Perfection: Galinda’s need to present herself as thoughtful and magnanimous, even when her actions are flawed, aligns with the experience of masking emotions to avoid judgement or criticism.
Boq’s Masking:
Context: Boq’s invitation to Nessarose under Galinda’s influence highlights his reluctance to act authentically but his desire to comply with social pressures.
Analysis:
Social Compliance: Boq’s actions are driven by a need to please Galinda, masking his true feelings. This aligns with how individuals may conform outwardly to gain approval, even when it contradicts their inner desires.
Emotional Suppression: His decision to hide his discomfort reflects the avoidance of potential conflict or rejection, a common masking behaviour in social settings.
Broader Themes of Masking and Camouflaging in ADHD:
Suppression of Authenticity: Both Galinda and Boq demonstrate behaviours where their true emotions and motivations are suppressed to fit social expectations. For individuals with ADHD, this might manifest as mimicking neurotypical behaviours or suppressing traits like hyperactivity or impulsivity to avoid being judged.
Fear of Judgement: The fear of rejection or criticism drives Galinda and Boq’s actions, reflecting a core reason for masking in ADHD. This fear often leads to exhaustion and a sense of inauthenticity over time.
Camouflaging as a Coping Mechanism: Both characters use masking as a way to navigate social dynamics, highlighting the pressure to perform rather than express their true selves.
Conclusion:
Galinda’s performative kindness and Boq’s reluctant compliance underscore the emotional strain of masking and camouflaging, mirroring the experiences of individuals with ADHD. These moments reveal the cost of suppressing authenticity to conform to societal norms, adding depth to their character arcs and reflecting broader themes of self-acceptance and vulnerability.
Escapism and Disengagement
Lyrics:
“Dancing through life, mindless and careless.”
Analysis:
Dancing “mindless and careless” symbolises escapism, a way to avoid the stress or disappointment of failure. This aligns with ADHD behaviours of gravitating toward low-stakes, immediate-gratification activities instead of confronting high-pressure tasks.
Broader ADHD Themes Reflected in the Song
Rejection Sensitivity and Validation Seeking:
Nessarose’s need for Boq’s approval reflects the emotional vulnerability tied to ADHD, particularly rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD). Galinda’s manipulation of Boq showcases her focus on external validation.
Novelty and Stimulation:
ADHD individuals often seek novelty and stimulation to maintain focus. Fiyero’s carefree philosophy and preference for socialising highlight this need.
Fear of Failure:
The avoidance of effort in the song reflects the fear of failure, a common experience for ADHD individuals who have faced repeated criticism or setbacks.
Conclusion
“Dancing Through Life” illustrates ADHD traits through Fiyero’s impulsivity and hyperfocus, Nessarose’s emotional dysregulation and validation-seeking, and Galinda’s masking and social pressures.
The lyrics explore avoidance, rejection sensitivity, and the tension between ambition and fear of failure. By weaving these behaviours into its narrative, the song encapsulates the complexities of ADHD-like traits in social and educational contexts, offering a nuanced portrayal of neurodivergence.
THE SONGS
The Wizard and I
This lyric from Wicked’s Song “The Wizard and I” captures a pivotal moment in Elphaba’s journey of self-discovery, resonating deeply with themes of stigma and the hidden strengths often associated with being neurodivergent, such as ADHD.
“This weird quirk I’ve tried to suppress or hide…”
- Stigma: This line reflects the societal pressure Elphaba feels to conceal her differences—her green skin being a metaphor for traits that make her stand out. For neurodivergent individuals, this mirrors the experience of masking or suppressing behaviours to fit societal norms and avoid judgement.
- Hidden Strengths: The term “quirk” highlights how unique traits, often misunderstood or stigmatised, can hold immense potential when embraced. For individuals with ADHD, traits like creativity, hyperfocus, or unconventional thinking may be dismissed as “quirks” but are strengths when viewed through the right lens.
“…is a talent that could help me meet the Wizard.”
- Reframing Differences: Elphaba’s realisation that her “quirk” is a talent symbolises the process of reframing neurodivergent traits as assets rather than liabilities. For people with ADHD, this might mean recognising their ability to think outside the box, approach problems creatively, or thrive in dynamic situations.
- Hope for Acceptance: Meeting the Wizard represents Elphaba’s hope for validation and recognition, much like the longing many neurodivergent individuals feel for acceptance in a world that often marginalises them.
“…If I make good, so I’ll make good.”
- Pressure to Prove Worth: Elphaba’s determination to “make good” reflects the immense pressure neurodivergent individuals often feel to prove their value to a society that undervalues them. The need to work harder to be seen as competent or deserving is a common experience for those facing stigma.
- Self-Validation: While this initially appears as a quest for external approval, it also hints at Elphaba’s growing confidence. Her willingness to embrace her talents suggests the journey toward self-acceptance—a crucial step for many neurodivergent individuals in overcoming stigma.
“Did that really just happen? Have I actually understood?”
- The Shock of Reframing: This moment of realisation—the idea that what she thought was a flaw might actually be a strength—mirrors the journey of understanding and accepting neurodivergence. It is the turning point where stigma begins to fade, replaced by empowerment and self-awareness.
In the Context of Stigma and Neurodivergence
This lyric encapsulates the duality of experiencing stigma while also possessing unique strengths. For neurodivergent individuals, traits dismissed as weaknesses by society can become powerful assets when understood and embraced. Elphaba’s journey reflects the internal conflict of reconciling societal rejection with the personal discovery of inherent value—a theme that resonates strongly with the ADHD and neurodivergent community.
THE SONGS
Defying Gravity
The lyrics from Defying Gravity highlight the emotional intensity of the conflict between Elphaba and Galinda, offering a powerful lens through which to examine emotional dysregulation, a hallmark trait often associated with ADHD and other neurodivergent conditions.
“Elphaba, why couldn’t you have stayed calm for once? Instead of flying off the handle!”
- Emotional Dysregulation: Galinda’s criticism underscores how Elphaba’s passionate reactions are perceived as impulsive and uncontrollable. This line directly references Elphaba’s tendency to act on strong emotions, often leading to situations where her cause is misunderstood or her actions are seen as excessive.
- Stigma and Misinterpretation: Galinda’s frustration mirrors societal reactions to those who struggle with emotional dysregulation, often labelling them as “overreacting” without recognising the depth or validity of their emotional experiences.
- Internalised Shame: For individuals with emotional dysregulation, such comments can reinforce feelings of inadequacy or shame, perpetuating cycles of self-doubt.
“I hope you’re happy. I hope you’re happy now.”
- Sarcasm as a Coping Mechanism: Galinda’s sarcastic tone reflects her own emotional dysregulation in the face of conflict, suggesting that both characters are struggling to manage their feelings.
- Seeking Validation: This line hints at the underlying desire for resolution and understanding, even as it is expressed through frustration. For individuals with ADHD, this parallels the experience of seeking connection but expressing it through emotionally charged language.
“I hope you’re happy how you’ve hurt your cause forever. I hope you think you’re clever.”
- Impulsive Actions and Consequences: Elphaba’s emotional decision-making, driven by her sense of justice, often leads to unintended fallout. Galinda’s words highlight the external perception of impulsivity as destructive, ignoring the emotional turmoil that drives such behaviour.
- Self-Sabotage: Emotional dysregulation can sometimes lead to actions that undermine long-term goals. Elphaba’s inability to temper her emotional reactions risks alienating allies and feeding into the narrative that she is “wicked.”
“I hope you’re happy too. I hope you’re proud how you would grovel in submission to feed your own ambition.”
- Emotional Projection: Galinda projects her feelings of guilt and frustration onto Elphaba, accusing her of ambition while struggling with her own complicity in societal norms.
- Emotional Polarisation: Both characters display heightened emotional responses, struggling to find balance between anger, guilt, and love. This reflects the difficulty individuals with emotional dysregulation often face in managing interpersonal dynamics during conflict.
Broader Context of Emotional Dysregulation
- Elphaba’s Perspective: Elphaba’s intensity stems from her unrelenting sense of justice and frustration at societal oppression. Emotional dysregulation amplifies these feelings, making her reactions appear disproportionate but internally justified.
- Galinda’s Perspective: Galinda, while outwardly more composed, also experiences emotional dysregulation, particularly in moments of conflict. Her criticism of Elphaba reflects her inability to process her own guilt and fear of being complicit in the system Elphaba fights against.
Conclusion
This section of Defying Gravity poignantly illustrates the struggles of emotional dysregulation, both in how it manifests (Elphaba’s intense reactions) and how it is perceived (Galinda’s frustration and criticism). It highlights the cyclical nature of dysregulation: strong emotions lead to impulsive actions, which are misunderstood or judged, perpetuating feelings of isolation and rejection.
Elphaba’s refusal to temper her emotions, though costly, ultimately becomes a source of empowerment as she chooses authenticity over compliance, challenging the stigma around emotional intensity.
Diagnosis
DSM V Criteria for ADHD
Based on the DSM-5 criteria for ADHD, both Elphaba and Galinda (Glinda) exhibit traits that could align with ADHD, albeit in different ways.
DSM-5 Criteria for ADHD:
The DSM-5 outlines symptoms in two categories: Inattention and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity.
For a diagnosis:
- At least six symptoms must be present in one category (or five for individuals aged 17 and older).
- Symptoms must be present in two or more settings (e.g., school, work, home).
- Symptoms must interfere with functioning or development and not be better explained by another condition.
Elphaba:
Inattention:
Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes:
Elphaba overlooks practical details in her pursuit of justice, often missing immediate consequences.
Example: Her confrontation with the Wizard is emotionally driven, without a clear plan for escape.
Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks:
She disengages in social or mundane situations, such as her apathy at the Ozdust Ballroom.
Appears not to listen when spoken to directly:
She often ignores advice from others, such as Glinda’s warnings to stay cautious.
Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli:
Her strong emotional reactions often derail her focus on long-term goals.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity:
Blurts out answers before questions have been completed:
Elphaba interrupts classes and conversations, often speaking passionately without waiting her turn.
Difficulty waiting her turn:
She frequently acts without considering others, such as when using magic impulsively.
Talks excessively:
In moments of emotional intensity, she dominates conversations.
Interrupts or intrudes on others:
Her passionate advocacy for justice often overrides others’ input or perspectives.
Functional Impairments:
Social: Alienates peers due to her intense focus on justice and defiance of norms.
Academic: Though highly intelligent, her impulsivity and emotional reactions create disruptions.
Galinda (Glinda):
Inattention:
Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks:
Glinda struggles to focus on meaningful issues, often prioritising superficial matters.
Example: Her obsession with popularity distracts her from recognising Elphaba’s deeper struggles.
Avoids or dislikes tasks requiring sustained effort:
She initially avoids addressing injustices or challenging her worldview, preferring easy social victories.
Forgetful in daily activities:
Glinda frequently overlooks the needs of others, such as Nessarose’s emotional struggles.
Hyperactivity/Impulsivity:
Impulsively acts to gain social favour:
Her decision to give Elphaba the pointed hat at the Ozdust Ballroom reflects impulsive, socially motivated behaviour.
Interrupts or intrudes on others:
She dominates social situations to maintain her status, often disregarding others’ perspectives.
Functional Impairments:
Social: While popular, her inability to recognise deeper issues leads to strained relationships.
Personal Growth: Her superficial focus limits her initial ability to engage in meaningful change.
ADHD Diagnosis Considerations:
Both characters display traits that could align with ADHD under DSM-5 criteria:
Elphaba: Likely fits the combined presentation (inattention + hyperactivity/impulsivity), with traits like impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and hyperfocus.
Galinda: Likely fits the predominantly inattentive presentation, with traits like distractibility, superficial focus, and impulsivity driven by social pressures.
However, these traits could also stem from other factors, including trauma, societal expectations, or personality differences. ADHD would need to be confirmed by considering developmental history, impairment across settings, and exclusion of other conditions.
Diagnosis
Autistic features
Autistic traits or features are evident in both Elphaba and Galinda (later Glinda) in Wicked. These traits reflect aspects of their behaviours, thought patterns, and challenges, though they are portrayed metaphorically.
Elphaba’s Autistic Traits
Social Communication Challenges
- Difficulty with Social Norms: Elphaba struggles to navigate societal expectations and norms, often saying or doing things that alienate her from others.
- Example: Her blunt honesty and lack of concern for social niceties, such as in her interactions with Galinda or during class discussions with Dr. Dillamond, highlight her discomfort with social dynamics.
- Dialogue: “Maybe perfecting the pronunciation of your precious name is not the sole focus of Doctor Dillamond’s life.”
- Lack of Awareness of Social Cues: Elphaba’s actions, such as speaking out passionately in inappropriate contexts, reflect challenges with understanding unspoken rules of engagement.
Intense Focus and Special Interests
- Passion for Justice: Elphaba’s singular focus on fighting for justice, particularly for Animals, demonstrates the kind of deep, focused interest often seen in autistic individuals.
- Example: Her dedication to freeing the Lion cub and exposing the Wizard’s manipulation of Animals showcases her inability to let go of her core values.
Sorcery as a Special Interest: Her natural aptitude for magic and her eagerness to explore it reflect an intense focus and proficiency often associated with special interests.
Emotional Sensitivity and Dysregulation
- Difficulty Regulating Emotions: Elphaba experiences heightened emotional responses, such as her impulsive actions in Defying Gravity or her explosive reactions to injustice.
- Example: Her inability to manage her feelings when betrayed by the Wizard demonstrates difficulty with emotional regulation.
- Sensitivity to Rejection: Elphaba’s lifelong experience of rejection exacerbates her emotional struggles, a common challenge for autistic individuals.
Preference for Routine or Predictability
- Resistance to Change: While not explicitly shown, her discomfort with societal structures and expectations suggests a preference for fairness and consistency in her environment.
Galinda’s (Glinda’s) Autistic Traits
Masking and Camouflaging
- Social Adaptation: Galinda excels at mimicking societal expectations, presenting herself as the epitome of charm and perfection, which can be interpreted as masking.
- Example: Her song Popular demonstrates her understanding of social rules and her ability to conform to them, even at the expense of authenticity.
- Difficulty Maintaining Authenticity: Her journey from superficiality to deeper self-awareness highlights the toll of masking over time.
Sensory Sensitivities
- Obsession with Appearance and Comfort: Galinda’s focus on aesthetics and her reaction to discomfort (e.g., her fussiness about her room or wardrobe) suggest sensory sensitivities.
- Example: Her exaggerated reactions to perceived imperfections in her environment reflect heightened sensory awareness.
Social Perfectionism and Anxiety
- Fear of Social Rejection: Galinda’s obsession with maintaining popularity reflects anxiety around being excluded or misunderstood.
- Example: Her initial cruelty toward Elphaba at the Ozdust Ballroom stems from her need to align with the majority’s expectations.
Struggles with Emotional Regulation
- Difficulty with Rejection: Galinda’s emotional breakdown after Fiyero shows her struggle to process complex emotions and manage social disappointments.
Shared Autistic Features
- Moral Rigidity: Both characters exhibit a strong sense of justice (Elphaba) and fairness (Glinda), often leading them to conflict with societal norms.
- Difficulty Navigating Relationships: Both struggle with forming and maintaining authentic connections due to misunderstandings or emotional barriers.
Conclusion
Elphaba and Galinda both exhibit traits that align with autism, though in different ways. Elphaba’s traits are more apparent in her directness, intense focus, and difficulty navigating social norms, while Galinda’s are reflected in her masking, sensory sensitivities, and perfectionism. These elements enhance their depth and relatability as characters while metaphorically addressing themes of neurodiversity.
Thrive
Everyone deserves a chance to fly
“Everyone Deserves a Chance to Fly: Unlocking Potential with ADHD”
This phrase can serve as a powerful foundation for messaging about ADHD, highlighting the importance of understanding, support, and empowerment.
Embracing Neurodiversity
Just like in Wicked, where Elphaba discovers her unique strengths, individuals with ADHD have their own “wings” – talents and abilities waiting to soar. By reframing ADHD as a difference, not a deficit, we can create an environment where everyone has the chance to succeed.
Access to Tools and Support
The “chance to fly” speaks to the importance of providing proper resources, whether that’s diagnosis, therapy, medication, coaching, or educational accommodations. With the right support, individuals with ADHD can reach new heights.
Celebrating Individuality
ADHD is often linked to creativity, innovation, and energy. The phrase reminds us that those with ADHD have unique perspectives and strengths. Empowering them to “fly” celebrates their individuality and contributions.
Breaking Down Barriers
For some, societal misconceptions about ADHD or lack of access to resources clip their wings. This slogan underscores the need to break these barriers and ensure equality of opportunity.
Dr. Raffi
Dr Asad Raffi is the Founder of Sanctum Healthcare, Medical Director and Lead Consultant Psychiatrist on the Specialist GMC register. As Medical Director Dr Raffi had over 20 years experience as a psychiatrist and brings a plethora of experience from the NHS and private sector.
