Networks of neuronormativity: Toward a systemic understanding of marginalization in public relations

This study explores how systems of marginalization permeate relationship networks and how the practice of public relations intermediates those systems. Through the analysis of 22 semi-structured interviews with leaders of neurodiversity workforce intermediaries (NWIs), we explore how advocates for neurodivergent employment encounter, uphold, and/or respond to systems of marginalization. The findings suggest that marginalization produced relational tensions within NWIs’ relationship networks that constrained their advocacy efforts. We argue that a critical network approach to public relations reveals how marginalization operates systemically, materializing in both tacit and explicit ways within different facets of relationship networks. We further suggest that the practice of public relations involves intermediation with these systems of marginalization. We conclude by stressing the importance of moving beyond episodic or incidental understandings of marginalization within public relations research to explore the socio-cultural systems that inform and constrain relationships. l