Here’s a clear, structured breakdown of neurodivergence, especially in the context of trauma, abuse, and systems of harassment or coercion:
1. Definition
Neurodivergence is a term that describes variations in the human brain and nervous system that affect:
- How a person thinks
- How a person processes information
- How a person experiences emotion, sensory input, and social interactions
Common examples include:
- ADHD
- Autism spectrum conditions
- Dyslexia, dyscalculia, and other learning differences
- Dyspraxia / developmental coordination differences
- Tourette syndrome
- Bipolar disorder or other mood-related neurodivergence (sometimes included under the umbrella)
Neurodivergence is not inherently a disorder; it is a difference in cognitive wiring.
2. Key characteristics
- Processing differences: May interpret sensory input, language, or social cues differently.
- Executive function differences: Planning, organisation, prioritising, and memory may work differently.
- Emotional regulation: Stress, trauma, or overstimulation may affect responses more intensely.
- Social interaction: Norms and expectations may be understood differently.
3. Neurodivergence and abuse/harassment
Being neurodivergent can increase vulnerability to coercive abuse or harassment, because:
- Social perception differences – Harder to detect manipulation or deceit.
- Communication differences – Statements may be misread or exploited.
- Heightened sensory/emotional response – Repeated harassment may feel overwhelming faster.
- Masking / camouflaging – Many neurodivergent people try to “fit in,” which can hide their boundaries, making them easier targets.
This does not mean blame; it means risk factors exist that abusers can exploit.
4. Strengths and resilience
Neurodivergent brains often show:
- Creativity and problem-solving outside the norm
- Intense focus on areas of interest (specialist knowledge)
- Strong pattern recognition
- Deep empathy or unique perspective when safe
These strengths can support recovery and strategy against abuse.
5. Legal and therapeutic framing
- Therapy: Neurodivergent survivors may need tailored strategies to process abuse (e.g., slower pacing, visual tools, structured communication).
- Legal context: Courts and authorities increasingly recognise neurodivergence when assessing:
- Vulnerability to coercion
- Witness credibility
- Impact of harassment or abuse
- Accommodations: Neurodivergent individuals may require:
- Written notices
- Clear timelines
- Concrete evidence logs
- Explicit boundary-setting strategies
6. One line to hold onto
Neurodivergence is a difference, not a deficit. In the context of abuse, it may change how harm is experienced and recovered from, but it does not diminish your rights or your capacity to protect yourself.
