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Rethinking self-identification in neurodivergent communities: barriers, harms, and the need for change
Alice Newton1, Aidan Flinn2, James Downs3
1Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom.
Self-identification of neurodivergence is a valid survival strategy due to barriers in formal diagnosis. Addressing systemic inequities is crucial for equitable neurodivergent understanding and care.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Neurodiversity Studies
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Self-identification of neurodivergence is rising but debated.
- Concerns exist regarding diagnostic reliability and service impact.
- Systemic barriers and personal experiences often precede self-identification.
Purpose of the Study:
- Explore reasons behind neurodivergent self-identification.
- Analyze diagnostic access inequities and clinician biases.
- Examine individual experiences and beliefs regarding clinical diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and theoretical analysis.
- Exploration of systemic barriers in diagnostic access.
- Application of epistemic justice theories.
Main Results:
- Self-identification is frequently a survival strategy against exclusionary diagnostic systems.
- Medical gatekeeping often delegitimizes self-identification.
- Inaccessible and biased diagnostic pathways necessitate self-identification.
Conclusions:
- Shift towards neurodiversity-affirming care is proposed.
- Addressing structural failures in diagnosis is essential.
- Self-identification remains a legitimate means of understanding neurodivergence until diagnostic access is equitable.
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