Enhancing Quality of Life in Individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Pathways to Inclusion and Well-Being

Quality of life (QoL) is a multidimensional concept encompassing physical health, emotional well-being, social relationships, and participation in meaningful activities. For individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, achieving a high QoL presents unique challenges and opportunities. Neurodevelopmental disorders typically manifest early in development (often before age 5) and are characterized by differences in brain processes that produce impairments in the attainment of developmental milestones, behavioral, social, learning, and/or functioning. Neurodevelopmental disorders may be present independently in a person, or they could be co-occurring (e.g., a person with intellectual disability and autism).

Historically, starting from rehabilitative perspectives, research has focused on alleviating the symptoms and improving the cognitive, functional, and social abilities, as well as behavior patterns, of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, often considering that the problem was within the person and the key was how to best fix the individual. Nowadays, there is a growing recognition of the need to focus on holistic approaches that promote overall well-being, inclusive practices, and the full and effective participation of individuals living with neurodevelopmental disorders in different spheres of their lives. However, despite advancements in policy and community inclusion, many individuals with these conditions still face significant barriers that jeopardize their QoL, such as social stigma, limited access to services, and insufficient support systems.

This Research Topic strives to deepen our understanding of what constitutes a good QoL for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, and to identify effective strategies to enhance it. By highlighting evidence-based practices, innovative interventions, and policy recommendations, we aim to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers dedicated to improving the lives of this population. The topic endeavors to illuminate the diverse experiences of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders and to foster inclusive environments that respect and promote their dignity and rights. In particular, the editors encourage submissions focusing on the following sub-themes:

· assessment and measurement of QoL: exploration of tools and methodologies for accurately assessing QoL in individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders considering cultural, social, and individual factors;

· interventions to enhance QoL: innovative approaches, programs, and therapies aimed at improving various QoL domains, including health, social participation, and autonomy;

· policy and community inclusion: analysis of existing policies and recommendations for enhancing social inclusion, accessibility, and rights of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders to improve their QoL.

By addressing these themes, the Research Topic aims to contribute to a more nuanced understanding of QoL for individuals with these conditions and to promote interventions that lead to their full participation and inclusion in society.

Keywords: quality of life, intellectual disability, autism, neurodevelopmental disorders

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.