In an era marked by a growing understanding of neurodivergence, a recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports shines a light on resilience factors among neurodivergent individuals. Researchers Mairead Black, Joris Segers, and Sahar Mahdi explored the complex interplay between risk and resilience, utilizing the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning (ICF) framework to provide a systematic analysis of qualitative responses from professionals working in this field. This rigorous approach seeks not only to illuminate the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent populations but also to highlight the strengths and resilience they exhibit in navigating their environments.
At the heart of the research is a robust methodology that employs a two-phase procedure linking qualitative data to the ICF framework, which is instrumental in standardizing health information. In the initial phase, the researchers conducted a deductive qualitative content analysis, sifting through responses to develop meaningful concepts related to risk and resilience. This analysis is particularly significant as it provides insight into how professionals perceive and articulate the nuances of neurodivergence, emphasizing both the risks and the resilience factors that have been observed.
Following the development of meaningful concepts, researchers linked these ideas to the ICF Child and Youth (ICF-CY) version, a classification that captures the functioning of developing individuals. The choice of ICF-CY is particularly relevant; it provides a comprehensive lens through which to view the multifaceted nature of neurodevelopment. This stage of linking requires an understanding of the intricate ways in which these factors interrelate, offering a structured vocabulary to describe the experiences of neurodivergent individuals. The framework’s flexibility allows for a nuanced exploration of personal factors, such as age, gender, and lifestyle, which can significantly shape resilience and risk.
Interestingly, the absence of an official classification for personal factors within the ICF does not deter the researchers from considering these elements critical to their analysis. Instead, they independently linked relevant concepts to a personal factors classification system proposed by Grotkamp et al. This adaptive approach underscores the researchers’ commitment to capturing the complexity of neurodivergent experiences, ensuring that the richness of data collected is not lost due to rigid classification systems. As they linked these meaningful concepts to ICF-CY codes, the researchers adhered to stringent linking rules described by the World Health Organization, ensuring that every connection was carefully considered and justified.
This rigorous linking process was not a solitary endeavor. To enhance the reliability of their findings, one researcher conducted the initial linking while a second verified 10% of the linked concepts. This collaborative approach minimized bias and error, fostering an environment where the results could be scrutinized and discussed transparently. Such attention to methodological detail is crucial in a field where subjective interpretations can significantly influence outcomes. The researchers achieved an inter-rater agreement score of k = 0.72, indicating substantial agreement, with any discrepancies effectively resolved through discussion.
Once the linking of concepts was established, the researchers faced the challenge of analyzing data concerning risk and resilience responses separately. This distinction is vital, particularly given the complexity in how responses might reflect external risk factors or internal resilience mechanisms. A nuanced observation revealed that certain responses, while initially classified as indicative of risk, better fit the profile of resilience factors. This recognition led to a reassessment of codes, ensuring a more accurate representation of the data and reinforcing the importance of context in interpreting qualitative responses.
The researchers’ analysis extends beyond mere categorization; they conducted frequency analyses to identify the prevalence of specific ICF codes related to risk and resilience, allowing for a clear understanding of how these factors distribute across neurodivergent populations. This not only aids in recognizing commonalities and differences within neurodivergent groups but also provides essential insights for tailoring interventions and supports aimed at enhancing resilience. Furthermore, the ability to compare these distributions by country income levels adds a layer of significance, as it can reveal how socio-economic factors interplay with neurodivergent experiences.
An additional layer of exploration included qualitative questions aimed at identifying perceived differences in risk and resilience factors across genders and in relation to neurodivergent versus neurotypical populations. Professionals reported varied insights, suggesting a complex interplay of factors that may not lend themselves to straightforward classification. Notably, many identified concepts did not neatly translate into existing ICF codes. This realization prompted a shift to a content analysis approach for these responses, wherein the researchers maintained the delicate nuances of professionals’ insights.
As this study underscores, understanding the mechanisms of resilience in neurodivergent individuals is increasingly essential in today’s society. The findings may contribute significantly to enhancing service provision, fostering environments that support rather than stigmatize neurodivergent individuals. With ethical considerations firmly at the forefront, including informed consent and adherence to established ethical guidelines, the research reflects a commitment to conducting respectful and responsible science.
Upon completion of the survey, participants received a knowledge pack containing crucial information about the ICF, in line with ethical practices that ensure transparency and education in research participation. Researchers also provided participants with a small incentive, recognizing the value of their time and contributions. Such practices reflect an ethical commitment to responsible research conduct while fostering a deeper understanding of neurodiversity among participants and the broader community.
In conclusion, this study contributes significantly to the discourse surrounding neurodivergence and resilience, providing a sophisticated framework for understanding and categorizing the varied experiences of neurodivergent individuals. The robust methodology employed ensures that the findings are not only reliable but also relevant, articulating a comprehensive view of how risk and resilience manifest within neurodivergent populations. By employing an established classification system and maintaining an ethical focus, this research sets a precedent for future studies aimed at elucidating the complex realities faced by neurodivergent individuals.
The significance of this work cannot be overstated, as it highlights not only the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals but also the myriad of strengths and resilience factors that can facilitate thriving in diverse environments. As awareness and understanding of neurodiversity continue to evolve, studies like these play a critical role in influencing practices, policies, and support mechanisms that are responsive to the needs of neurodivergent populations around the globe.
In moving forward, the research community must prioritize similarly rigorous studies that explore resilience among various populations while remaining sensitive to the cultural and socio-economic factors that shape experiences of neurodivergence. By building on the findings presented in this study, we can aspire to create a more inclusive society that not only recognizes diversity but also champions the strengths inherent within it.
Subject of Research: Resilience factors in neurodivergent individuals as perceived by professionals.
Article Title: Resilience in neurodivergence: professional perspectives mapped to the World Health Organisation’s International Classification of Functioning.
Article References:
Black, M.H., Segers, J., Mahdi, S. et al. Resilience in neurodivergence: professional perspectives mapped to the World Health Organisations’ International Classification of Functioning. Sci Rep 15, 37360 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-25079-0
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI:
Keywords: Neurodivergence, resilience, risk factors, ICF, qualitative research, ethical considerations, neurodevelopment.
