“My son thinks he has ADHD”
“My daughter feels that she might be autistic"
“My young person believes they are neurodivergent"
Is this your experience as a parent/carer? My name is Alma Foster. I am a doctoral student researcher at the University of Exeter, and I would like to invite you to participate in my study.
Neurodivergence self-diagnosis among young people has been widely reported in international media; however, the voices of young people and parents/carers are often missing from the conversation. If you would like, you can read more about my exploration of this topic in this article from last year.
In this study, I am looking to hear from young people and parents/carers of young people aged 13-17 who have felt curious, fairly sure, or certain that they are neurodivergent at any point. I hope to learn when, how, and why some young people might self-diagnose, the impacts of self-diagnosis (whether positive or negative), and what support families think could be helpful.
Young people are invited to share their views in an online survey, and parents/carers are invited to share their views in an online or email interview. Young people will need consent from their parent/carer to take part. Please use this link to learn more.
Please note: This study does not include assessments for autism, ADHD, or any other neurodevelopmental difference or condition. This means I will not be able to confirm if your young person has the condition they feel they might have. Only a doctor can tell you this.
Thank you for your time. Please do not hesitate to get in touch with any questions ([email protected]).
With appreciation,
Alma
P.S. This study has been reviewed by the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee at the University of Exeter (Reference Number 9011324). Contact details of researchers and relevant university departments can be found here.