In recent years, the conversation around neurodiversity has gained momentum, shedding light on the unique ways in which individuals experience and interact with the world. However, a less discussed but crucial aspect is the connection between neurodiversity and domestic abuse, especially among younger people.
Neurodivergent individuals—those with conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or Tourette’s syndrome—may face heightened risks and unique challenges in abusive situations. In this blog, we will explore these challenges, why they exist, and what can be done to provide better support.
Understanding neurodiversity and its impact
Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that acknowledges and celebrates the natural variations in human brain function and behaviour.
According to the National Autistic Society, around 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent, encompassing a range of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia, and others (National Autistic Society). Neurodivergent individuals often experience the world differently, with variations in communication styles, sensory processing, and emotional regulation.
These differences can unfortunately make neurodivergent young people more vulnerable to domestic abuse. Misunderstandings about neurodivergent behaviours can lead to isolation and increased dependence on abusers, while difficulties in communication may prevent them from seeking help and can make it difficult for others to recognise the signs of domestic abuse in them.
Why are neurodivergent young people at higher risk?
- Communication challenges
Neurodivergent individuals may struggle with recognising and articulating abuse due to differences in communication styles. For instance, autistic individuals may find it hard to identify manipulative behaviour or express their experiences clearly to authorities or support services (Autistica). - Increased dependency
Many young neurodivergent people rely on family members or partners for support with daily tasks, which can create a power imbalance. Abusers may exploit this dependency, making it harder for victims to leave or seek help. - Sensory sensitivities and emotional regulation
Heightened sensory sensitivities and difficulties with emotional regulation, common in autism and ADHD, can be manipulated by abusers to control or distress the victim. Moreover, these characteristics can sometimes be misinterpreted by professionals as signs of other issues, leading to a lack of appropriate support (ADHD Foundation).
Recognising the signs of domestic abuse
Domestic abuse isn’t limited to physical violence; it can be emotional, economic, or psychological. Some signs that neurodivergent young people might be experiencing domestic abuse include:
- Increased isolation: Being prevented from seeing friends or engaging in interests.
- Control over routines: Restricting or punishing behaviours linked to sensory or coping needs.
- Financial control: Withholding resources needed for therapy, assistive devices, or other supports.
- Gaslighting: Making the victim doubt their own perceptions or experiences, which can be particularly damaging for those already struggling with self-doubt due to neurodivergent traits.
Barriers to seeking help
- Mistrust of authorities
Neurodivergent young people may have past negative experiences with authorities who misunderstood or dismissed their needs. This can discourage them from reaching out when experiencing abuse. - Fear of not being believed
Many worry that they will not be taken seriously or that their concerns will be dismissed due to their neurodivergence. - Misdiagnosis and dismissal
Behaviours linked to trauma from abuse can overlap with neurodivergent traits, leading to misdiagnosis or dismissal of concerns by professionals. For example, meltdowns or shutdowns in autistic individuals might be seen as defiance rather than signs of distress.
How to support neurodivergent young people facing abuse
- Neurodiversity-aware services
Somerset Domestic Abuse Service are trained to recognise and understand neurodivergent behaviours. This includes providing multiple communication methods, such as text-based chat or email, for those who struggle with verbal communication. - Empowerment Through Education
Teaching neurodivergent young people about healthy relationships, consent, and how to recognise abuse can empower them to seek help if needed. Resources should be accessible and tailored to different communication styles and processing needs. - Clear and Accessible Information
Information about abuse and support services should be available in easy-read formats, with clear language and visual aids.
Conclusion
Neurodivergent young people deserve safe, supportive environments where they can thrive without fear of abuse. Addressing the unique risks they face requires a combination of education, specialised support, and systemic change. By recognising the intersection of neurodiversity and domestic abuse, we can begin to build a world where all young people can live free from fear.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, reach out to Somerset Domestic abuse Service, an organisation that understand neurodiversity and can provide the right support. Help is available, and you are not alone:
- Call: 0800 69 49 999 (8am–8pm, 7 days a week including bank holidays)
- Email: domesticabuseservice@somerset.gov.uk
- In an emergency dial 999. If speaking puts you at risk, stay silent, tap the phone, and press 55 when prompted.
- For those who are D/deaf, hard of hearing, or speech-impaired, register with emergencySMS.net to text 999 in an emergency. If you use British sign language (BSL) you can go to 999 BSL for a BSL interpreter.
