Dr. Drew B. Mallory’s research uncovers the complex interplay of culture, society, and caregiver experiences, highlighting that job training programs can transform attitudes, abilities, and opportunities. In a first-of-its-kind study in Thailand, Dr. Drew B. Mallory, Professor of Organizational Behavior and Management at Sasin School of Management and Director of Research at the Neurodiversity at Work Research Centre (NWRC), has investigated the experiences of caregivers supporting neurodivergent adults in Thailand. Neurodivergence refers to the natural variations in brain function and behavioral traits, including conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. It is estimated that neurodivergence affects between 15% and 20% of the global population, which would equate to around 10-14 million people in Thailand. Despite this, employers in Thailand often express hesitation to hire neurodivergent individuals due to misconceptions about their abilities and the accommodations they may require. Families and caregivers also experience social and financial stress when caring for a neurodivergent individual due to negative social and organizational perceptions and a lack of governmental support. Dr. Drew’s research is particularly significant as it is one of the very few studies to focus on adult neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers in the country and include the perspectives of both local Thai and expatriate families. The study’s findings, which has been published in the prestigious journal PLOS One, provide crucial insights into how cultural and societal factors influence the acceptance, support, and overall quality of life for neurodivergent adults and their caregivers in Thailand. Dr. Drew’s study included focus groups with caregivers whose neurodivergent adult dependents had not yet received vocational training and interviews with caregivers whose dependents had completed a job training program. The findings show that cultural ideas like karma and “saving face” can lead to stigma, denial, and hesitation to seek early diagnosis and services for neurodivergent individuals in Thailand, something compounded by negative social attitudes toward neurodiversity and disability. However, certain perspectives of caregivers whose dependents completed a training program evolved over time, from initially seeing neurodivergence as a consequence of past misdeeds to later reframing it as an opportunity for growth and ultimately toward acceptance. “While it’s not surprising that cultural beliefs influence caregiver experiences, the degree to which they affect caregivers in Thailand is noteworthy. This research shows that understanding these cultural factors is crucial for developing support systems that resonate with the local context—and that account for both Thai and expatriate caregivers,” says Dr. Drew. The study also points out the ongoing challenges that neurodivergent individuals face throughout their lives, such as limited access to resources, education, and job opportunities. Dr. Drew’s research not only highlights the challenges faced by caregivers and neurodivergent individuals but also shows the positive impact of targeted job training programs on both neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers. “We found that neurodivergent individuals flourished in the specialized job training program at the community-based center in Bangkok, exceeding the expectations of relatives and parents. Caregivers witnessed firsthand their loved ones’ potential and ability to work, which tended to upheave their previous beliefs about what it meant to be neurodivergent and helped them to change their mindset on what their dependents were capable of,” explains Dr. Drew. Dr. Drew’s research highlights the urgent need for accessible paths to independence for neurodivergent individuals in Thailand, where meaningful work opportunities remain limited, and training programs are largely underfunded and inaccessible. The study calls for coordinated efforts between different groups, including the government, schools, job training programs, and employers, to create inclusive environments, explore the strengths of neurodivergent individuals, and break down limiting differences. “It’s time for us to embrace neurodiversity as a natural aspect of human variation and recognize the capabilities and worth of neurodivergent individuals in our homes and workplaces. The Thai government should invest in accessible vocational training programs, and businesses should provide opportunities and support for neurodivergent employees. By doing so, we can create a ripple effect that not only benefits neurodivergent individuals but also their families and society as a whole,” emphasizes Dr. Drew. The study not only reveals the challenges faced by caregivers and neurodivergent adults but also provides actionable insights for policymakers, support programs, and future research in Thailand and the broader Southeast Asian region. It is only a part of Dr. Drew’s ongoing research through the NWRC on the employment ecosystem of neurodivergent people in Thailand. Upcoming studies will build upon these findings to explore how employers can be encouraged to adopt more inclusive practices and mindsets. Sasin School of Management, where Dr. Drew is employed, was the first higher education institution in Thailand to adopt a comprehensive inclusion policy for staff and students, which includes accomodations for learning differences and disability. CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL RESEARCH ARTICLE