What can psychological research tell us about neurodiversity?
With Neurodiversity Celebration Week aiming to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences, we highlight some of the research studies from BPS journals that have explored the topic of being neurodiverse.
20 March 2024
Autism and the double empathy problem: Implications for development and mental health
British Journal of Developmental Psychology
This article suggests a connection between how neurotypical people can misunderstand autistic individuals and the negative impact this has on autistic individual's mental health and overall wellbeing.
It proposes a view of development where the misperceptions and behaviors of neurotypical individuals influence how autistic individuals see themselves and interact with society, leading to their isolation and exclusion from mainstream society, with a detrimental impact on their mental health.
This not only harms the development and potential of autistic individuals but also limits their contributions to society. The article challenges the notion that autistic individuals lack social motivation, suggesting instead that many desire inclusion, productivity, and usefulness.
Autism research is 'all about the blokes and the kids': Autistic women breaking the silence on menopause
British Journal of Health Psychology
The menopause is a major transition marked by considerable challenges to health and well-being. Its impact on autistic women has rarely been explored or researched, but is of significant concern, given the poorer physical and mental health, emotion regulation and coping skills, and the common social isolation of this group.
This study aimed to explore awareness and perception of the menopause; menopausal experiences and their impact across each individual's life; ways that menopause with autism might differ from a non-autistic menopause; and what optimal support might look like.
Through interviews with 17 autistics individuals (16 who identified as cisgender women), four main themes were found:
- People's journey to realizing they have autism as adults.
- Understanding menopause and how people perceive it.
- The effects of symptoms on individuals.
- How menopause might affect neurodiverse people differently.
People's experiences during menopause were different, with some noticing a significant decline in their daily abilities, mental health, and social interactions. Many weren't aware of menopause or didn't feel confident seeking help from healthcare professionals.
These findings suggest that menopause could significantly impact the health and well-being of autistic individuals, highlighting a need for more support in this area that is currently lacking.