Neurodivergent Characters in Young Adult Literature by Neurodivergent Authors: A Critical Content Analysis for Educators

• In Event: Toward Authentic and Affirming Representation: Disabled and Neurodivergent Perspectives in Life and Literature

Abstract

A critical content analysis of six middle grade and young adult novels written by neurodivergent authors centering neurodivergent characters, recommended by neurodivergent readers, was conducted to understand the potential role literature can play as educators work to repair representations of neurodivergence in K-12 schools. Analyzing texts through the theoretical lenses of DisCrit and Neurodiversity Studies, we sought to understand the plot points and literary elements of the novels that align with a strength-based, empowering view of neurodiversity. For educators striving to remedy deficit-based views of neurodivergence, our findings offer several neurodiversity-empowering text recommendations for K-12 schools and teacher preparation programs.

Authors

• Kerry Cormier, Rowan University

• Madeline P. Boehning, Rowan University