This Translational Fellowship project explored the intersection between neurodiversity, extremism and online algorithms from the perspectives of Counter Terrorism practitioners.
The aim of this research was to investigate whether police practitioners recognised neurodivergent people as being at risk of exploitation by online algorithms. Additionally, it assessed whether practitioners felt equipped to understand and support neurodivergent people involved in such cases.
Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants from a regional Counter Terrorism policing unit. The findings showed that Counter Terrorism practitioners need to critically reflect on their understandings of neurodivergence and advocated for nuanced approaches to safeguarding neurodivergent people in an increasingly digital society. It was identified that:
- While the study could not establish definite links between neurodivergence, extremism and algorithms, police practitioners highlighted that neurodivergent people can be vulnerable to self-radicalisation facilitated by online algorithms.
- Such perspectives appeared to impact practitioners’ understanding of neurodiversity, which were generalised and led to practitioners relying on assumptions about neurodivergence, in particular that neurodivergent characteristics are directly associated with extremist behaviours.
- A lack of comprehensive training about neurodiversity may lead to increased risk of attributing extremist behaviours to a person’s neurodivergence and lead to lost opportunities to critically assess vulnerability and risk.
Next steps
The next phase of this project focuses on turning research findings into action. Key activities include:
- Developing training modules and practical toolkits for practitioners in Counter Terrorism policing and related fields.
- Arranging a webinar to disseminate the findings and engage stakeholders.
- Presenting the research at the Vulnerability & Policing Futures Research Centre conference in September 2025 .
- Raising awareness through publications to reach diverse audiences.
About the Translational Fellow
Dr Alice Siberry is a Specialist Criminal Justice Neurodiversity Consultant at Creased Puddle. Alice completed her PhD in Criminology and Law at the University of Sheffield in 2021 and has extensive experience in the Criminal Justice and neurodiversity sectors. She has worked with North and West Yorkshire Police, the Independent Office for Police Conduct and lectured at York St John University and the University of Sheffield. Alice is highly skilled in delivering training and consultancy, including research consultancy, to diverse organisations, managing complex Workplace Needs Assessments and bridging academic research with practical applications. As Academic Lead at Creased Puddle, her first book, Diversity, Difference or Disorder: Neurodiversity British Policing, is set for publication in summer 2025.
About Creased Puddle
Creased Puddle is a leading UK-based neurodiversity consultancy specialising in policing and neurodiversity. The team delivers evidence-informed training, coaching and consultancy services, empowering organisations to foster inclusive environments. Creased Puddle’s innovative solutions span sectors including policing, education and workplace support.