OUR RESEARCH
We integrate a blend of research insights, practitioner viewpoints, and personal experiences to shape our resources and services.
To tackle the existing gap in research on neurodiversity within sports, we have partnered with several research institutions. These are listed below along with information on how to connect and participate.
Maintaining the ethical integrity of our research collaborations is crucial to us, and we are committed to prioritising the needs and interests of neurodivergent individuals. Therefore, we emphasise sharing lived experiences and promoting a holistic approach to our recommendations as a primary concern.
ACTIVE PROJECTS WE ARE SUPPORTING
UNDERSTANDING THE DISTRIBUTION OF NEUROCOGNITIVE CHARACTERISTICS AMONGST ELITE ATHLETES
Our combined research project in collaboration with the University of Reading Autism Research Centre aims to establish whether young elite athletes with Autistic traits self-select certain sports, and what their experiences are like within their respective sports. We hope that the insight gained will inform us as to the neuroinclusivity of various sporting environments. This information will allow us to focus our efforts most effectively.
If you have any questions, please contact
PhD researcher Simon Brett
COMPLETED PROJECTS WE HAVE SUPPORTED
EXPLORING THE STRESSORS EXPERIENCED BY NEURODIVERGENT ATHLETES
In 2024, a study was carried out by Dr. Sam Wood, Dr. Ben Marshall, and Dr. Greg Wood from Manchester Metropolitan University's Institute of Sport. The research delved into the stressors encountered by neurodivergent athletes, focusing on various aspects of sport psychology. This particular project aimed to investigate the challenges that neurodivergent athletes encounter during sports participation, be it in training or competition.
For any inquiries about the project, feel free to reach out to Dr. Sam Wood.
NEURODIVERGENT LIVED EXPERIENCE: HIGH PERFORMANCE SPORT
In 2023-2024, Dr. Helen O'Donnell, a Doctoral Researcher focusing on Neurodiversity and High-Performance Sport at the University of Central Lancashire, carried out a research project. The project aimed to explore the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals in high-performance sports through a series of in-depth interviews. Dr. Helen's findings will soon be available for publication.
For any inquiries in the interim, please reach out to Dr. Helen O’Donnell.
NEURODIVERGENT ATHLETE'S PERSPECTIVE: ELITE SPORT
In 2023, Anita Jones, an MSc student at Staffordshire University, carried out a research project titled “Supporting Neurodiversity in Elite Sport: An Athlete’s Perspective”. Anita's focus is on assisting organisations in comprehending how to establish an environment conducive to the success of neurodivergent athletes from the athletes' standpoint. She will soon publish her research findings.
For any inquiries in the interim, please reach out to Anita Jones.
Terminology
We’ve explored various terms related to neurodiversity, including "neurodiverse", "neurodivergent", and more.
Understanding these terms is essential for recognising and respecting the diverse ways people experience the world. To learn more, check out our full glossary of neurodiversity-related terminology.
