How Does Experiencing a Traumatic Event Impact Neurodivergent Adolescents’ Mental Health: A Literature Review

Amanda Pallitto

Co-Presenters: Tamara Torres, Illiona O'Kereke, Melissa Miller

College: College of Health Professions and Human Services

Major: PHD.CNSL/SUPV

Faculty Research Mentor: Haktanir, Kadir  

Abstract:

Adolescence marks a critical developmental window marked by rapid neurobiological, physical, psychological, cognitive, and social change. The developmental milestones during this period can significantly affect future outcomes. Accordingly, exposure to a traumatic event during this sensitive time period may have detrimental effects on adolescent development, which may exacerbate susceptibility to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.Literature suggests that the disruptive effects of exposure to trauma may be amplified in neurodivergent adolescents. Neurodivergence can be defined as a person with a brain that is structurally and functionally different from a neurotypical brain. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that includes autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), DiGeorge syndrome, Down syndrome, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyslexia, dyspraxia, intellectual disabilities, Pander-Willi syndrome, some mental health conditions, sensory processing disorder, social anxiety, Tourette's syndrome, and Willys syndrome. Researchers revealed that trauma can intensify dissociative symptoms due to the complexity of the brain’s cognitive structure and development.Our literature reveals that while researchers investigate how exposure to traumatic events affects neurodivergent youth, there remains a lack of evidence-based trauma-focused psychotherapy models tailored for neurodivergent adolescents.Keywords: neurodivergence, trauma, adolescence, mental health