Using Q Methodology, a Group of Neurodivergent Neurodiversity Researchers Ask: What is the Neurodiversity Movement and what should it do?

Stenner, Paul; Pearson, Amy; Kapp, Steven; Watson, Catherine; Pressler, Ronit; Williams, Gemma; Bertilsdotter-Rosqvist, Hanna; Hultman, Lill; Semmens-Wheeler, Rebecca; Botha, Monique

Abstract

This paper describes the eight phases of an innovative procedure for collective and reflexive research about neurodiversity. Structured by Q methodology, this procedure allowed a small group (n = 10) of neurodivergent researchers to identify and discuss our different viewpoints on what neurodiversity means (three viewpoints) and aims for (three viewpoints). The rigour of the procedure was underpinned by the use of Q items collectively self-generated by the group, individual Q sorting of these items to render ‘operant’ each member's viewpoint, Q factor analysis to compare and group these data quantitatively, and group discussion to interpret these factors and to discuss the implications of our differences for the practical future of the neurodiversity movement. The significance of this procedure is that it provides a new way for neurodivergent neurodiversity researchers to collaborate in surfacing and understanding differences and similarities in their views on what the neurodiversity movement is and what it should aim to do. There is a growing focus on neurodiversity across society and it is important to appreciate diversity to avoid misunderstandings around concepts and aims. The variation in viewpoint here demonstrated can inspire future research and help shape the basis for the theoretical discussion informing the movement going forwards.

Citation

Stenner, P., Pearson, A., Kapp, S., Watson, C., Pressler, R., Williams, G., Bertilsdotter-Rosqvist, H., Hultman, L., Semmens-Wheeler, R., & Botha, M. (2025). Using Q Methodology, a Group of Neurodivergent Neurodiversity Researchers Ask: What is the Neurodiversity Movement and what should it do?. Neurodiversity, 3, https://doi.org/10.1177/27546330251329625

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 4, 2025
• Online Publication Date: May 21, 2025
• Publication Date: May 21, 2025
• Deposit Date: May 27, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: May 27, 2025
• Journal: Neurodiversity
• Electronic ISSN: 2754-6330
• Publisher: SAGE Publications
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 3
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/27546330251329625
• Keywords: dyspraxia, ADHD, autism, Q methodology, dyslexia, neurodivergence
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/3963572