Positioning Neurodiversity: The Perspectives of Neurodivergent African Migrants in Aotearoa, New Zealand

ABSTRACT Neurodiversity, a complex phenomenon acknowledging natural variations in human brain function and behaviour, is predominantly conceptualised through a Western‐centric lens. This narrow perspective excludes diverse understandings across different communities and contexts, significantly impacting equity and inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals. This paper, grounded in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, investigates the social effects of neurodiversity on African migrants and their families in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Key findings underscore the critical importance of relationality, connectedness, and diverse perspectives in understanding neurodiversity. The research reveals complex lived realities and challenges in accessing services and supports. Importantly, it highlights the profound impact of intersectionality on the everyday experiences of neurodivergent African migrants. This study argues for the urgent prioritisation of these intersectional experiences in conceptualising and implementing neurodiversity‐affirming approaches across research, policy, and practice. Such inclusion is vital for creating truly equitable and inclusive societies where all neurodivergent individuals can thrive.

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Publication Details

Journal
Journal of Social Issues
Published
2025-10-28
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1111/josi.70039
Citations
1
Primary Topic
African cultural and philosophical studies
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
8.93
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article

Positioning Neurodiversity: The Perspectives of Neurodivergent African Migrants in Aotearoa, New Zealand

Anneka Anderson, Karen Brewer, Rachel Mukwezwa Tapera
1 citations
Journal of Social Issues
African cultural and philosophical studies
8.93
article

Positioning Neurodiversity: The Perspectives of Neurodivergent African Migrants in Aotearoa, New Zealand

Anneka Anderson, Karen Brewer, Rachel Mukwezwa Tapera
article en
1 citations

Abstract

ABSTRACT Neurodiversity, a complex phenomenon acknowledging natural variations in human brain function and behaviour, is predominantly conceptualised through a Western‐centric lens. This narrow perspective excludes diverse understandings across different communities and contexts, significantly impacting equity and inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals. This paper, grounded in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, investigates the social effects of neurodiversity on African migrants and their families in Aotearoa, New Zealand. Key findings underscore the critical importance of relationality, connectedness, and diverse perspectives in understanding neurodiversity. The research reveals complex lived realities and challenges in accessing services and supports. Importantly, it highlights the profound impact of intersectionality on the everyday experiences of neurodivergent African migrants. This study argues for the urgent prioritisation of these intersectional experiences in conceptualising and implementing neurodiversity‐affirming approaches across research, policy, and practice. Such inclusion is vital for creating truly equitable and inclusive societies where all neurodivergent individuals can thrive.

Journal of Social IssuesVol. 81(4)
University of Auckland (NZ)
Openalex Percentile: Top 2%
African cultural and philosophical studies
8.93
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Positioning Neurodiversity: The Perspectives of Neurodivergent African Migrants in Aotearoa, New Zealand — Anneka Anderson, Karen Brewer, et al. · Journal of Social Issues (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS