The Relationship Between Neurodiversity Awareness and Inclusion Attitudes Toward Employees with ADHD and Autism

Nitya Himatsingka

Abstract: The present study investigates the relationship between neurodiversity awareness and inclusion attitudes toward employees with ADHD and Autism in workplace contexts. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected through a structured questionnaire - the Neurodiversity Awareness and Inclusion Attitude Scale (NAIAS) - adapted from established instruments such as the Autism Stigma and Knowledge Questionnaire (ASK-Q), ADHD Awareness Questionnaire (AAQ), and Multidimensional Attitudes Scale toward Persons with Disabilities (MAS). A total of 100 responses were received, of which 93 valid entries were retained for analysis following data screening. Descriptive statistics revealed moderate awareness and positive attitudes towards inclusion among participants, although some misconceptions persisted. A simple linear regression revealed that awareness significantly predicted inclusion attitudes (β = 0.21, p = .03, R² = 0.04). The multiple regression model, incorporating both awareness and prior contact with neurodivergent individuals, was statistically significant (F (2, 90) = 3.92, p = .02, R² = 0.08). Contact emerged as a stronger predictor (β = 0.27, p = .03), while awareness remained a positive but marginal factor (β = 0.20, p = .06). These findings demonstrate that personal interaction with neurodivergent individuals strengthens the impact of awareness on inclusion attitudes, highlighting the combined importance of education and interpersonal exposure in fostering inclusive workplace environments. The study concludes that neurodiversity awareness alone is valuable but gains greater practical significance when supported by direct contact, organizational training, and systemic inclusion efforts.

Keywords: Neurodiversity awareness, Inclusion attitudes, ADHD, Autism, Workplace inclusion, Contact hypothesis, Neurodivergent employees, Organizational psychology

How to Cite?: Nitya Himatsingka, "The Relationship Between Neurodiversity Awareness and Inclusion Attitudes Toward Employees with ADHD and Autism", Volume 14 Issue 11, November 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 273-279, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251101150604, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251101150604