User blog:AustinDR/Leni Has Autism Theory

So I've seen this theory get tossed around on the internet, so I thought I should talk about it. Basically the theory posits that Leni actually is diagnosed with autism. This would seemingly explain most of her behavior throughout the series. Going into it, she does meet some of the criteria: she has difficulty paying attention - even to something that is simplistic - and repetitive movements. Several fans had pointed out how Leni holding her hands in front of her body is one of the signature traits of a child with autism. Now while she seemingly meets most of the criteria listed, I honestly don't think she has autism, nor was it the creator's intent.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that makes social interactions difficult. In my opinion, Leni fails this part of the criteria. While she may not be that bright, Leni doesn't express much issue with forming social relationships. Granted, most of her friends share her interests so maybe that makes it more easy, but beside that, she gets along relatively well with her siblings. True they fight a lot, but at the end of the day, she does truly love her family. Another example is "can't detect other people's emotions or depression." Clearly, Leni fails this part of the criteria as well. There are many instances of Leni being aware of her siblings' feelings. In fact, yesterday's "Room with a Feud" is one such example of this. When Lincoln was talking to Clyde about how he was going to force his sisters to take their rooms back, she overheard him be miserable, and she agreed to relocate along with her other siblings. Or there's "Cereal Offender" where she realizes what she had done, and pitches in to buy Zombie Bran for Lincoln. There are other examples, but in sum, Leni clearly detects other people's emotions even if not at first.

Overall, it's an interesting theory, and adds some depth to Leni's character, but speaking as someone with Asperger's, I don't feel that Leni has it. Is it out of the question to say that Leni at the very least possibly has a learning disability. No, but again, I just feel that Savino only meant for her to be the dumb blonde stereotype without administering a deeper meaning. However, considering that the show introduced a same-sex couple in the form of Harold and Howard, and it will also debut a character with Down syndrome, who knows, maybe there's more to Leni than what's being let on.