JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Neurodivergent young people, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, are especially vulnerable to loneliness, yet their voices are rarely included in the development of technologies intended to support social connection. This study explored neurodivergent young adults' experiences of loneliness and co-designed digital solutions to address it. We conducted five co-design workshops structured around the Double Diamond framework (Discover, Define, Develop, Deliver) with ten neurodivergent young adults (aged 18–24) recruited through a community partner in Southwest England. Workshops used creative methods - including model building, engagement with existing technologies and drawing future scenarios – to help participants express their views. Data were analysed using the framework approach and synthesised into guiding principles that informed five paper prototypes, which participants critiqued, selected from and refined. Participants described loneliness as feeling trapped in their own thoughts and disconnected even when surrounded by others – shaped by prior bullying, fear of rejection, and the cognitive and sensory demands of face-to-face interaction. They wanted technologies that act as low-pressure, affordable, user-controlled social scaffolds that avoid drawing attention to the user or encouraging masking. Participants unanimously selected the "Game of Awkwardness" for further development, a card game that reframes social awkwardness as a shared, humorous goal. User-testing of a physical version of the game suggested it reduced anxiety around conversations with unfamiliar people. Co-design with neurodivergent young adults is feasible and productive. Given advances in generative AI to support the rapid development of new technologies, the guiding principles and prototype offer a foundation for developing non-stigmatising technologies that celebrate, rather than correct, neurodivergent experiences.