Resisting Neuro-Normativity: The REBEL Framework for Neurodivergent Young People and Their Families.

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored parents' experiences of supporting neurodivergent young people to develop a relational framework for neuro-affirming family supports.

Materials and methods: Drawing on a newly created Relational Ecosystemic Belonging through Equity and Liberation (REBEL) framework, the paper contributes to theory building about the experiences of parents and caregivers of neurodivergent young people, focusing on what they need to support their young people. The study analyzed 54 survey responses using demographic data and qualitative content analysis.

Results: While parents faced judgment and lack of acceptance of neurodiversity, impacting their ability to create supportive environments, they were creative agents in resisting neuro-normativity and building relational spaces of belonging in the face of systemic ableism and stigma. Nevertheless, they expressed overwhelm from the need to advocate extensively for their neurodivergent young person across health and education systems.

Discussion: Caregivers' need for more financial and social support for their own wellbeing was viewed within an anti-oppressive social work approach which makes visible the structural power dynamics including impacts of capitalism and individualism, neuro-normativity, and funding approaches which stigmatize and disadvantage neurodivergent young people and their families.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that to further enhance equity, generate a genuine sense of belonging for neurodivergent young people and their families and resist oppressive power relations created by ableism and stigma, there is a need for a parent program guided by the REBEL framework. This framework is underpinned by an anti-oppressive, anti-ableist social work approach, the neurodiversity paradigm, and acknowledgment of the double empathy problem.