Researcher ORCID Identifier

0009-0005-6338-6064

Graduation Year

2026

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Biology

Second Department

Anthropology

Reader 1

Claudia Strauss

Reader 2

Jenna Monroy

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Terms of Use for work posted in Scholarship@Claremont.

Rights Information

2026 Alia Wang

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative interview study was to examine the experiences of neurodivergent women and gender-diverse individuals regarding productivity. Neurodivergence is often understood in biological and medical terms; far less attention has been given to how neurodivergent individuals experience and navigate everyday life. Meanwhile, productivity is often framed as a neutral measure of efficiency, but in practice, it is shaped by social norms that shape particular ways of thinking, working, and behaving.

Particularly for women and gender diverse people, these expectations are compounded not only by cognitive differences but also by gendered norms around behavior. This creates a mismatch between how individuals are expected to function and how they may function most effectively. Often, the severity of a disability is judged by employment and education metrics; neurodivergent individuals, particularly women, face disproportionately high rates of unemployment, underemployment, and lower educational attainment; additionally, globally,

women have a higher rate of working in the informal economy, doing tasks such as caretaking and unpaid household labor, and maintaining social relationships. There remains limited research on how these structural patterns are experienced in everyday life.

In this study, 11 participants from diverse backgrounds described their day-to-day lives, including their responsibilities, challenges, and the expectations placed upon them. Participants frequently reported difficulties with schooling and work, chronic fatigue, and challenges completing basic daily tasks, highlighting the biological effects of these pressures. At the same time, participants described strengths associated with their neurodivergence and identified changes they would like to see in support and accommodations in society.

This study argues that neurodivergence, particularly measured through the lens of productivity or functioning, is not an ideal metric. It should not be understood as a deficit but as a socially constructed expectation that creates a mismatch with biology. It is hoped that this thesis will generate insight and support for neurodivergent individuals and increase empathy.

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