An article written by Gabriele Barrocas for the Vanderbilt Vanguard

Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of human minds due to the infinite differences in neurocognitive functioning within individuals in society. We are all considered neurodiverse in that we all require different demands when it comes to productivity and sociability. However, neurodiverse tends to refer to those with neurological differences like those who have ADHD, depression, autism, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, dyslexia, etc. Neurological variation is natural. It is essential towards the success of humans as a species and therefore neurodiversity advocates view these variations from a strength-based perspective. As we know, neurodivergent individuals are diverse, and so their interests and desires pertaining to sex and sexuality will also be diverse. 

Studies have shown that individuals outside the cis-hetero binary were three to six times more likely to have an autism diagnosis, excluding individuals who are undiagnosed. There also seems to be higher rates of ADHD diagnoses among individuals who identify as queer. The intersectionality of gender and neurodiversity are growing more common in recent years. Like neurodiversity, sexuality is not a one-size-fits-all idea. There exists a diverse range of neurodivergent individuals within the gender diverse community.

Researchers at Vanderbilt found that children with autism face higher rates of gender diversity than their neurotypical peers. In other words, this means that the way they experience gender may be more distinct compared to their peers. A study led by Dr. Blythe Corbett and Professor James Blakemore found that autistic chidlren experience higher rates of nonbinary identification and showed the importance of understanding the unique needs of children with autism who experience gender diversity. Corbett said, “Importantly, the results also show that some individuals with ASD and gender diversity may have higher mental health challneges necessitating multidisciplinary support. It is important to recognize that co-occurence of gender and neurodiversity may contribute to greater psychological, emotional, clinical, and ethical challenges for both the child and their families especially within a complicated social and political context.”

There are no clear reasons yet to explain the overlap between the neurodiverse and gender diverse community. Some experts believe it has to do with social experiences. Individuals with autism are less influenced by social norms. They often present themselves in a more authentic light compared to neurotypical individuals. 

When we think about this intersection, we realize that everyone has a different life experience that involves different ways of processing and perceiving the world. If we incorporate this mindset, we are one step closer to inclusion in society. Clinicians and educators should normalize talking to autistic people about sexuality and identity because of the potential mental health implications that can result from ‘minority stress.’ In fact, nearly 70% of autistic gender-diverse adolescents desire medical gender-related care according to a study in 2018. Clinicians should help neurodiverse people navigate gender identity transitions. Neurodiverse individuals require the same access to gender-affirming healthcare like those accessed by neurotypical individuals.