05-21-2025
A 2023 Deloitte survey of Gen Z and Millennials revealed that 53% of Gen Z employees self-identify as neurodivergent. The non-profit Understood surveyed more than 2000 U.S. adults and found that 659 identified themselves as neurodivergent. Just 11% had received an official diagnosis. Eighty-six percent (86%) of 1000 hiring managers told ResumeGenius that they viewed a neurodivergence disclosure as having either a positive or neutral impact on a job application.
Yet, Understood’s research reveals that 70% of neurodivergent workers believe there is a stigma to asking for workplace accommodations. That is a ten percent (10%) increase from the year before. Sixty-four percent (64%) have spoken more openly about their neurodivergence. Only 56% received accommodations that improved their workplace experience. Managers have refused outright one in five requests for accommodations. The requested accommodations for neurodivergence are generally simple, like flexible work environments or changing desks (Fast Company). Fifteen percent (15%) of the respondents said they lost a job, received a demotion, or were denied an opportunity after asking for an accommodation.
These workers expressed concern about the rollback of DEI in the workplace, with 64% believing it will be more difficult for them to access workplace accommodations. Understood told Fast Company, “Different right now is not seen as a good thing—regardless of where you’re at.” With so many Gen Zers considering themselves neurodivergent and their increasing numbers at work, reducing the stigma and improving workplace accommodations will be essential.