The Dangers of TikTok's Neurodivergence Trend: Misinformation and Misdiagnosis

The Rise of Neurodivergence Content on TikTok

In recent years, TikTok has become a hub for content creators discussing various aspects of neurodivergence, with many videos featuring hooks like “Signs you might be autistic/have ADHD.” These videos often describe behaviors that are experienced by a large proportion of people, not just those who are neurodivergent. The frequency of encountering these videos is notably high, with about 7-8 appearing every week or two from different creators.

While the intention behind these videos may be to spread awareness or foster a sense of community, they can be dangerous and harmful. The portrayal of neurodivergence in media as a superpower adds to the complexity, potentially leading viewers to misinterpret their own behaviors and symptoms.

The Pitfalls of Overgeneralization

One of the main issues with these TikTok videos is that they tend to overgeneralize behaviors that can be experienced by anyone. Regular behaviors can indeed be signs of neurodivergence, but it's the frequency and inability to handle them effectively that typically characterizes neurodivergent conditions. For instance, regularly forgetting important things in a way that others don't, and having a negative impact on life, might be a sign of ADHD. However, suggesting that anyone who ever feels tired or sad might be depressed is unreasonable and misleading.

The problem is exacerbated when people start subconsciously amplifying traits they think are signs of neurodivergence after watching these videos. This self-diagnosis based on generalized content can lead to unnecessary anxiety and confusion.

Misinformation and Its Consequences

The spread of misinformation on TikTok is alarming. Some videos are intended as memes for other neurodivergent people and are not meant to be diagnostic information, which can make them misleading. These videos can spread medical misinformation to get engagement, leading people to believe they have a disorder or condition without proper diagnosis.

Research has shown that a significant portion of TikTok videos about autism are inaccurate or overgeneralized. Only 27% of the top 133 TikTok videos providing informational content on autism were classified as accurate. This misinformation can have real-world consequences, with some people changing their lifestyles or trying to get special treatment at work based on inaccurate information from TikTok videos.

The Role of Healthcare Professionals

Videos created by healthcare professionals are more likely to include accurate information. However, the informational content about autism on TikTok reaches a large audience but is mostly misaligned with current knowledge. This discrepancy highlights the need for more reliable sources of information on social media platforms.

Healthcare professionals can play a crucial role in debunking myths and providing accurate information. Their expertise can help mitigate the spread of misinformation and ensure that viewers receive reliable guidance.

Cultural Appropriation and Identity

Another concerning trend is the claim of neurodivergence to create an identity and establish oneself as an "expert." This phenomenon is seen as a form of cultural appropriation, where individuals who may not be neurodivergent adopt these traits to gain social capital. Neurodivergent people experience certain behaviors much more frequently and intensely than neurotypical people. For example, loud sounds can ruin a neurodivergent person's day, whereas they are just annoying to neurotypical people. Similarly, neurodivergent individuals may have extreme food aversions, leading to underweight or malnutrition, unlike typical food dislikes.

By claiming neurodivergence without proper diagnosis, individuals not only spread misinformation but also undermine the experiences of those who genuinely struggle with these conditions.

Final Thoughts

The trend of neurodivergence content on TikTok highlights the platform's potential for both positive awareness and harmful misinformation. While raising awareness is crucial, it is equally important to ensure that the information being shared is accurate and reliable. Users should approach such content with caution and seek professional advice for any concerns regarding neurodivergence. By doing so, we can create a more informed and supportive community for everyone.