Emotional Complexities of Neurodivergence in D.S Walker’s Novel Delightfully Different

Abstract

D.S. Walker is a registered nurse with over 25 years of experience and a deep interest in sensory processing challenges associated with Asperger’s Syndrome. Asperger’s Syndrome, a form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is characterized by social difficulties, strict routines, limited interests, and repetitive behaviours like hand-flapping. This paper analyses the emotional complexities of Mia Lung, a girl with Asperger's syndrome shifting away from stereotypical representations of Asperger's syndrome to analyse her genuine experiences and navigating emotions in a neurotypical society that often misunderstands her. Mia Lung’s experience transcends mere difference, revealing deep emotional depth and resilience. Notable aspects of her emotional experience are explored, starting with the constant misinterpretation of her behaviours by others, which leads to isolation and frustration. Mia lung’s dependence on predictable routines as a fundamental coping mechanism, offering her with stability in an overstimulating environment and also exploring the complexities of her family dynamics. Mia Lung’s understanding of herself and becomes stronger over time. Her feelings may not follow what is seen as “normal,” but they are still real and meaningful. By focusing on Mia’s point of view, people with Asperger's syndrome (a form of autism) have deep emotions too, not just simple or weak ones. Mia Lung’s journey shows the importance to understand the feelings of neurodivergent people in their own way, not by comparing them to what is seen as normal. Her journey questions sterotypical ideas about autism and feelings, showing that being sensitive and staying calm are signs of strength, not weakness. This novel is a unique way of thinking about neurodivergent people, and value how they understand life.