mBio. 2025 Nov 19:e0087325. doi: 10.1128/mbio.00873-25. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
The number of autistic people is growing rapidly. Among other traits, autism results in significantly more rational and objective thought patterns, and thus, neurodivergent students pursue education and employment in STEM fields at higher rates. However, autistic scientists experience discrimination and more career setbacks than neurotypical scientists. Despite the myth of scientific meritocracy, there are pervasive social expectations to “behave normally” and “fit in,” encouraging the camouflaging of autistic traits, which can contribute to anxiety, depression, and suicidality. The literature is conclusive: it is the obligation not of autistic scientists to change but of their managers, coworkers, administrators, and society to be more inclusive, accommodating, and tolerant of neurodivergent perspectives in work environments.
PMID:41258721 | DOI:10.1128/mbio.00873-25
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