Neurodiversity in elite sport: a systematic scoping review

Abstract

The objective of this systematic scoping review is to understand the extent and scope of evidence regarding neurodiversity in elite sport. This systematic scoping review considered epidemiological studies, commentary and viewpoints papers, systematic review and meta-analyses, and any intervention or clinical treatment, management and practice studies in relation to neurodiversity in elite sport. Case studies and grey literature were ineligible for review. Neurodivergence included neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and specific learning disorders. Elite sport was defined as Olympic, Paralympic, national, international, professional and semiprofessional sport. The final 23 studies included in this review comprised 10 observational studies, 4 systematic/narrative reviews, 6 commentary/position statements and 3 qualitative studies. The literature reflected a major focus on ADHD as a risk factor for concussion and prognosis for postconcussion recovery. Further, there was a focus on the medical management of ADHD, regarding adherence to sporting antidoping regulations. One study focused on the experience of autism in athletes in elite sport settings through qualitative interviews. One study focused on anxiety disorders in elite athletes, with ADHD emerging as a major risk factor. There is a strong rationale for future research to build on the evidence for neurodiversity in elite sport to foster supportive and inclusive elite sporting environments.

Modelo médico-clínico y paradigma de la neurodiversidad: la importancia de una mirada integradora para comprender el autismo

“…Otros aspectos que sobresalen en la presente investigación tienen que ver con las nuevas alternativas de tratamiento que plantea el modelo médico-clínico. La manera tradicional de intervenir está demostrando que impide que haya un progreso que beneficie a quienes están dentro del espectro, teniendo en cuenta las necesidades emergentes en el mundo de hoy (Hoare et al, 2023;Isequilla-Alarcón & Martín-Delgado, 2023;Venegas, 2019). En cuanto a lo social, pensarse en términos de la diversidad del pág.…”