Neurodiversity in Children From Historically Marginalized Communities

Pediatric Annals
|August 7, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Pediatricians can reduce disparities in diagnosing neurodevelopmental disorders by using culturally responsive tools. Early identification and intervention are crucial for children from marginalized communities, supporting the neurodiversity movement.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Health Equity

Background:

  • Neurodiversity encompasses variations in cognitive and behavioral functioning, often including conditions like autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
  • Primary care pediatricians play a key role in identifying and evaluating neurodivergent development in children.
  • Significant disparities exist in diagnosing and managing developmental disorders for children from marginalized communities, impacting early intervention opportunities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the role of pediatricians in addressing disparities in neurodevelopmental disorder diagnosis and management.
  • To emphasize the importance of culturally responsive practices in pediatric care for diverse populations.
  • To advocate for improved early identification and intervention strategies for neurodivergent children.

Main Methods:

  • Review of the role of pediatricians in identifying neurodevelopmental disorders.
  • Discussion of disparities in diagnosis and management for marginalized communities.
  • Exploration of culturally responsive screening and intervention tools.

Main Results:

  • Delays in diagnosis negatively affect developmental outcomes due to missed critical intervention periods.
  • Culturally responsive screening and intervention tools can help alleviate existing disparities.
  • Integrating healthcare and educational systems can improve identification and support.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatricians are vital in promoting health equity for neurodivergent children.
  • Implementing culturally responsive strategies can mitigate diagnostic and management disparities.
  • Enhanced early identification and cross-system collaboration benefit children from minoritized backgrounds and the broader neurodiversity movement.

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