NEURODIVERSITY-AFFIRMING AUTISM ASSESSMENT AND SUPPORT: A SCOPING REVIEW

Purpose: The neurodiversity movement has challenged longstanding medical conceptualizations of autism. This scoping review aims to examine recent literature on neurodiversity-affirming autism research, assessment and support. Study Design: A systematic PubMed search using the term "neurodiversity-affirm*" was conducted in May 2025. The findings were thematically organized to illustrate how neurodiversity-affirming views are currently shaping medical practice. Findings: The neurodiversity movement is a human rights movement that advocates for the rights and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals. It emphasizes the importance of involving autistic people in research, decision making and service planning. Some of the most prominent advocates of the neurodiversity movement are scientists and health professionals with lived experience of autism. They are uniquely positioned to bridge autistic experience, scientific research and healthcare practices. Recently, many health professionals have embraced the ideas of the neurodiversity movement and integrated them into the concept of neurodiversity-affirming practice. To date, these principles have inspired various health professionals and members of the autistic community to collaborate in improving autism assessment and support. This new approach has led to the development of promising assessment tools and innovative ways of supporting autistic children, youth and adults. Conclusion: For autistic individuals, whose ways of being have historically been framed in terms of deficits, it is essential to create spaces where they can authentically express themselves and be recognized and valued. Such environments are fundamental to enhancing their wellbeing. Healthcare providers are therefore encouraged to rethink autism services and to co-design them with the autistic community to promote true inclusion.