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‘It’s Not Supposed to be a Personality Factory’: Experiences of Education Systems from the Perspective of Parent-Carers of Neurodivergent Children

Deacon, Lesley, Bikova, Zeta, Deacon, Matt, Thurgood, Yasmin and Barrett, Melanie (2025) ‘It’s Not Supposed to be a Personality Factory’: Experiences of Education Systems from the Perspective of Parent-Carers of Neurodivergent Children. In: Neurodivergent Education and Lifelong Learning. IGI Global Scientific. (In Press)

Item Type: Book Section

Abstract

This chapter presents findings from a collaborative narrative conducted in October 2024, involving parent-carers of neurodivergent children, some of whom are neurodivergent themselves. Utilizing a collaborative autoethnography approach, the narrative emphasizes the importance of making all voices heard in Neurodiversity Studies and challenges stereotyped understandings of neurodivergence. The narrative explores parent-carers' experiences navigating the UK education system, highlighting the challenges faced by neurodivergent children and their families. The chapter examines the impact of inclusive education policies and the role of Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) in supporting neurodivergent children. The narrative also addresses the rigidity of the education system and the trauma experienced by neurodivergent children due to lack of understanding and support. The chapter concludes with recommendations for teachers, SENCOs, and policymakers to create a more inclusive and supportive education environment.

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More Information

Depositing User: Lesley Deacon

Identifiers

Item ID: 19137
URI: http://sure.sunderland.ac.uk/id/eprint/19137

Users with ORCIDS

ORCID for Lesley Deacon: ORCID iD orcid.org/0000-0003-0031-2445

Catalogue record

Date Deposited: 23 Jul 2025 12:10
Last Modified: 23 Jul 2025 12:10

Contributors

Author: Lesley Deacon ORCID iD
Author: Zeta Bikova
Author: Matt Deacon
Author: Yasmin Thurgood
Author: Melanie Barrett

University Divisions

Faculty of Education, Society and Creative Industries > School of Social Sciences and Law

Subjects

Education
Social Sciences

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