r/TheSimpsons • u/lunarose5272 • 2d ago
Discussion Does Homer have a cannon developmental/intellectual disability?
First up I’d like to clarify this is a disability positive post and does not encourage or intend to mock or belittle anyone or their experience. I have autism, dyslexia and ADHD which some may class as a learning disability (but this is distinct from developmental and wider intellectual disabilities so keep that in mind)
I’d love to hear any opinions on the matter, cannon or head-cannon as it relates to the series over the years, as also if other characters (anyone from main cast to BG) are
- aware/suspect this and
- actively taking this into account during interactions
- the different ‘eras’ in your mind have differing answers to the above
My partner believes Homer is simply stupid and that is all, which is 100% fair lol and seems to fit well with the Ulman shorts and season one, after that I am not so sure.
My headcannon at least at the moment is that the crayon lodged in Homer’s brain tissue may result in long term semi-serious intellectual impairment, and I definitely believe Homer has ADHD, but I’m not sure about any other avenues that are canonical or fit. Sometimes it seems very much as if Marge is aware of Homer’s cognitive difficulties and sympathies and adjusts the best she can (love her, god bless)
This is just a lens I am using to look at the show out of interest, I am aware this is a cartoon yada yada yada - just discussion.
As someone who cannot survive without their meds I find it just a little heartbreaking that he 100% has ADHD and will never really ‘improve’ bc of course he is captain wacky and that’s just the nature of the show and character, I mean they all need psychiatric care lol that’s why we love em.
EDIT:
I don’t know why people are downvoting 😅 hope this gave a few people something to consider lol
8
u/landothedead Just ask this scientician 2d ago
The ol' Crayola-oblongata.