Undercover Oddball: An Autoethnographic Account of Neurodivergence in the Workplace

Abstract

This study of the effects of disclosure for people with “invisible” neurodivergent disabilities uses autoethnography to provide a more intimate look at the challenges of navigating the workplace interactions that exist for people with autism and/or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), along with other common comorbidities like depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Using three vignettes from my past to serve as counternarratives that challenge the commonly described experiences that people with disabilities (PWD) have with disclosure. Findings illuminate the emotional dimensions of disclosure from the perspective of a neurodivergent employee. The study’s implications for practice and research include a call for enhanced understanding and acceptance of the inherent psychological differences in the ways that neurodivergent employees process and share information, as well as additional investigation of post-disclosure conditions for PWD. These findings are crucial in raising awareness and promoting understanding of neurodivergent experiences in professional settings, contributing to a more inclusive and supportive work environment.