Inclusion by design a-neuro-cognitive trait interaction approach-to neurodivergent research

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Dark, J. (2025). Inclusion by design a-neuro-cognitive trait interaction approach-to neurodivergent research. Methodological Innovations, 18(4), 253-263. https://doi.org/10.1177/20597991251396144

Publication date: 1 Dec 2025 Added to AutiHub: 5 Jul 2026 Type: Article Article language: English
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Publication authors identified as autistic
1 / 1 (100.0%)
  1. Jessica Dark *

Abstract

This article introduces an original methodological contribution to inclusive research design: the Neuro-Cognitive Trait Interaction Model (NCTIM). Developed to address the exclusion and misunderstanding of neurodivergent people in traditional research, NCTIM provides a flexible, values-based framework that centres lived experience. Building on earlier work on neuro-cognitive trait interaction and inclusive research methods, NCTIM encourages researchers to respond to how neurodivergent people process information, interact, and communicate, rather than relying on diagnostic labels. Grounded in the neurodiversity paradigm and informed by epistemic justice, NCTIM focuses on how cognitive processing traits such as communication preferences, executive functioning, sensory processing, and attention styles shape research participation. It follows a three-stage process: mapping study demands, identifying potential trait interactions, and embedding inclusive features. The model’s application is demonstrated through my doctoral research with autistic women in the workplace. NCTIM offers a timely, neurodivergent-led contribution to reimagining research design, supporting greater inclusion, authenticity, and respect for neurodivergent expression and engagement in research.

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Cited references
38
Total cited references integrated for this publication.
Cited references with an identified autistic author
9 / 38 (23.7%)
Cited author occurrences identified as autistic
27 / 106 (25.5%)
Among occurrences linked to AutiHub author records: 27 / 55 (49.1%). Distinct cited authors identified as autistic: 22 / 97 (22.7%).
Cited author occurrences linked to AutiHub author records
55 / 106 (51.9%)
Distinct linked cited authors: 46 / 97 (47.4%)
Linked cited-author occurrences not identified as autistic
28 / 55 (50.9%)
Among linked cited-author occurrences only. Across all cited-author occurrences: 28 / 106 (26.4%). Distinct linked cited authors not identified as autistic: 24 / 46 (52.2%).
2 cited bibliography entries could not be fully enriched from DOI metadata.
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