Rethinking the Extended Reality and Autism Research Agenda: Toward Neurodiversity-Affirming, Transdiagnostic, Inclusive Design

Abstract

A growing body of research on extended reality (XR) interventions for neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), has begun to advocate for a shift from a deficit-based model to a more inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming framework. Early studies focused primarily on leveraging virtual reality (VR) to address social communication challenges, but contemporary approaches have begun to broaden their scope to prioritize sensory, cognitive, and emotional needs of neurodiverse users. This paper explores this evolution of XR interventions, emphasizing the importance of co-design methodologies that actively involve autistic individuals in the development process. A transdiagnostic perspective is advocated, recognizing shared challenges across neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders. This inclusive approach allows for the development of adaptable XR environments, enhancing accessibility and promoting skill generalization. The paper argues for a paradigm shift in XR research, calling for a focus on empowering neurodiverse individuals through customization, flexibility, and immersive features tailored to their strengths. Ultimately, the paper highlights the ethical imperative of centering neurodiverse voices and advancing inclusive research agendas that prioritize autonomy, well-being, and long-term support for neurodivergent populations.