Northern Soul and Neurodiversity

[Sheffieldsoulg]

This may be controversial…  

I’m not saying every soulie is neurodiverse however these are some of my reflections. 

I’ve been thinking about neurodiversity and Northern Soul. I have been invited as a Guest Speaker at a Learning Disability Nursing conference in Belfast this week. As a result I’d begun documenting my own and the experiences of other people I know. 

My reflections particularly relate to Autism and ADHD. 

Some examples I’d thought about were maybe how in the past and even to this day travelling all over the country is something exciting and how on impulse many soulies did and do decide to travel to events. People would of been soulin Friday to Sunday with little thought about consequence on Monday . There’s the adrenaline rush from intense physical exercise, and a dopamine hit from hearing a new record.  

Record collecting - this is something that is a perfect hyperfixation, it’s addictive something that people with adhd might get hooked on, then there’s the potential photographic memory element of remembering labels, musicians, producers and the remembering of matrix numbers. There’s the predictable routine ritual of putting the record on the turntable. Completists who search for specific records/items may be another positive example of preserving the music. 

Researching again goes hand in hand with special interest, the amount of people I know with such a sheer and vast knowledge is insane, in particular around the history of the scene and artists. A strong sense of justice and fairness aligns with ensuring artists get the recognition they deserve, and social justice around reappropriating the music.

Djing, your up their alone yet sharing the music with others. A great hobby, and way of having a starting point for conversation with others. ADHD and intuitively reading the room picking up on the energies and observing what records to select. 

Dancing alone, yet with others no need for physical touch, you can get hot and sweaty no bother, you don’t need anyone to dance with so no social interactions needed other than bumping into someone ‘sorry mate’. Spinning lots of spinning and repetitive dance movements could meet people’s needs to stim. Being in the zone hyperfocus on the present and being free from other thoughts and worries. 

All-nighters & hyperactivity it’s commonly known autistic people and those with adhd can have difficulties with sleep a solution go out dancing all night, burn off energy and be active. 

Top 500 familiarity - I can’t speak for all people however nostalgia and predictability can be a big comfort to a lot of people. 

A set of social norms - clear expectations/social cues which can help people avoiding feeling awkward. You go in, you pay, you sit where you normally do (left front of stage for me) with folk you might know (chances are you know someone), you might say hello, you dance, you leave. 

Sensory needs - 4x4 beat that just hits right, it’s dark super dark (or they might have disco lights ) something for all. You can wear comfy attire things that don’t restrict you (unless you’re a cool mod ). 

Promoters/event planners meticulously planning and coordinating weekenders, weekly events, nighters - again something people with a passion for it with adhd/and or Autism would excel at. 

Drug use/escapism - again not all partake however some do and substance use and adhd have been commonly linked in research. 

Rare Soul - a smaller collective of folk an inner circle, where again you tend to see the same faces which again beings belonging through a niche interest.

Trauma, ADHD and Autism - research shows that people with ADHD and Autism are much more likely to have experienced trauma. Some soulies describe soulin as their solace, a place where they have regained their confidence and found a support network. 

I’d like to thank the people who responded to my initial Facebook post and would be interested to know others thoughts  

Amy Hodkin
              KTF 

[Dace]

A thoughtful and insightful look at the scene, as someone who's under the neurodiverse umbrella I can definitely get behind this, also the darkness of the venues is good for my peepers, unless they have the disco lights on sacrilege.

[John Hart]

Amy , 

                  I am that person with autism and ADHD ! A  look at all posts on here perfectly illustrate your prognosis, all the symptons are so patently visible , My Question ,what is the cure? Best post for years.

[Dobber]

Is it the adhd attracts one to northern soul/collecting,or northern soul gives one adhd ?

[Woodbutcher]

14 minutes ago, Dobber said:

Is it the adhd attracts one to northern soul/collecting,or northern soul gives one adhd ?

Nah , it was the gear ... 

[Monny1916]

Get a grip most of us were early teens , you loved the music then enhanced it with whatever you could for 10 a quid , if you are still on the scene and enjoying it in your late 60s , early 70s result 

[Dobber]

1 hour ago, Woodbutcher said:

Nah , it was the gear ... 

[Timbo58]

Great post & interesting topic Amy.

I am convinced that in all passionate collecting especially there is 'a spectrum' certainly.

[Solidsoul]

You're ridiculously way over analysing things!

  Going on holiday or playing sport could fall into your mental categories. 

Too much analysing goes on these days!  

This is what happened.

People wanted a good time so they went out and had a good time! 

Edited April 10 by Solidsoul

[Shinehead]

Bunkum.

 

 

 

Edited April 9 by Shinehead

[Chatty]

That explains it, I thought I was suffering from something that's why I took all those drugs back in the day....

[Sheffieldsoulg]

56 minutes ago, Solidsoul said:

You're ridiculously way over analysing things!  Going on holiday or playing sport could fall into your mental categories. Too much analysing goes on these days!  

This is what happened.

People wanted a good time so they went out and had a good time! 

At no point did I ever say it wasn’t about that  

All of the above factors are parts that people enjoy if they wernt they wouldn’t do them  

 

 

[Bo Diddley]

I don't think that "The Soul Scene" has any more or less "Neurodivergent" folks than any other special interest or hobby. It just provides a platform or outlet for those traits to be displayed. 

About 35 years ago, my wife bought me a scalextric set as a bit of a joke present. I bought a few more bits and bobs and, after a while, I visited a "slot car" racing club! They were all nice people, but talk about obsessive behavior... !! 

 

[Sheffieldsoulg]

10 minutes ago, Bo Diddley said:

I don't think that "The Soul Scene" has any more or less "Neurodivergent" folks than any other special interest or hobby. It just provides a platform or outlet for those traits to be displayed. 

About 35 years ago, my wife bought me a scalextric set as a bit of a joke present. I bought a few more bits and bobs and, after a while, I visited a "slot car" racing club! They were all nice people, but talk about obsessive behavior... !! 

 

Haha I appreciate what you are saying, I’m not saying there are more or less. Just the reasons why neurodiverse people might like it or sometimes do really well. 

[nstomp97]

Hi Amy,

As someone doing a postgraduate degree in Psychology - studied in the areas of belonging, community, and collecting behaviour, I find your reflections on neurodiversity within the context of the Northern Soul scene intriguing yet overly generalised. Whilst it's commendable that you're exploring the intersection of neurodiversity with cultural phenomena, I believe your approach may benefit from a more nuanced perspective.

Firstly, it's essential to acknowledge that while certain behaviours and preferences you've highlighted might resonate with traits associated with neurodiversity, they are not exclusive indicators. Many individuals without neurodiverse conditions also exhibit these behaviours. Therefore, attributing them solely to neurodiversity might oversimplify the complexity of human behaviour.

Moreover, the Northern Soul scene, is more aptly studied through an anthropological lens rather than solely through the framework of neurodiversity. The book, "The Northern Soul Scene" by Sarah Raine, offers a comprehensive anthropological exploration of the scene, providing valuable insights into its cultural significance, rituals, and social dynamics. This could serve as a more appropriate starting point for understanding the intricacies of the scene.

Whilst it's plausible that certain aspects of the scene might resonate with individuals with ADHD or Autism, it's crucial not to conflate correlation with causation. The behaviours you've highlighted, such as record collecting or DJing, may indeed appeal to individuals with specific cognitive profiles, but they also hold significance within the broader cultural context of the scene.

Furthermore, your mention of drug use and escapism within the scene could potentially perpetuate stereotypes and stigmatise individuals with neurodiverse conditions. Whilst it's essential to acknowledge the prevalence of certain behaviours, it's equally important to approach the topic with sensitivity and avoid reinforcing negative associations.

Whilst your reflections offer an intriguing perspective on the scene, I believe a more nuanced approach is necessary. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of human behaviour and the cultural context of the scene, we can gain a deeper understanding of its dynamics without oversimplifying or misattributing certain traits.

ATB 

[Woodbutcher]

Thank gawd the 'scene' we love started before all this touchy-feely nonsense tried taking over the world ... !

 

 

[Shinehead]

What next medics walking round venues with clipboards observing the punters at play

Edited April 9 by Shinehead

[Algsoul]

4 hours ago, Chatty said:

That explains it, I thought I was suffering from something that's why I took all those drugs back in the day....

[Mithras]

A good course of green and clears in order  followed by some red and browns should sort this out

[Woodbutcher]

3 hours ago, nstomp97 said:

Hi Amy,

As someone doing a postgraduate degree in Psychology - studied in the areas of belonging, community, and collecting behaviour, I find your reflections on neurodiversity within the context of the Northern Soul scene intriguing yet overly generalised. Whilst it's commendable that you're exploring the intersection of neurodiversity with cultural phenomena, I believe your approach may benefit from a more nuanced perspective.

Firstly, it's essential to acknowledge that while certain behaviours and preferences you've highlighted might resonate with traits associated with neurodiversity, they are not exclusive indicators. Many individuals without neurodiverse conditions also exhibit these behaviours. Therefore, attributing them solely to neurodiversity might oversimplify the complexity of human behaviour.

Moreover, the Northern Soul scene, is more aptly studied through an anthropological lens rather than solely through the framework of neurodiversity. The book, "The Northern Soul Scene" by Sarah Raine, offers a comprehensive anthropological exploration of the scene, providing valuable insights into its cultural significance, rituals, and social dynamics. This could serve as a more appropriate starting point for understanding the intricacies of the scene.

Whilst it's plausible that certain aspects of the scene might resonate with individuals with ADHD or Autism, it's crucial not to conflate correlation with causation. The behaviours you've highlighted, such as record collecting or DJing, may indeed appeal to individuals with specific cognitive profiles, but they also hold significance within the broader cultural context of the scene.

Furthermore, your mention of drug use and escapism within the scene could potentially perpetuate stereotypes and stigmatise individuals with neurodiverse conditions. Whilst it's essential to acknowledge the prevalence of certain behaviours, it's equally important to approach the topic with sensitivity and avoid reinforcing negative associations.

Whilst your reflections offer an intriguing perspective on the scene, I believe a more nuanced approach is necessary. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of human behaviour and the cultural context of the scene, we can gain a deeper understanding of its dynamics without oversimplifying or misattributing certain traits.

ATB 

To be honest this reminds me fondly of the sort of thing that the mighty Fudge would spend ten minutes pummelling you verbally with at 4am in a corner of the 100 Club , before giving you 'that' grin and wandering off leaving you feeling mildly abused and knowing he'd done you up yet again ... love you mate ... 

Edited April 9 by Woodbutcher

[Kenb]

Oh blimey…logged in whilst on hols..thought I’d had too much sun. 

[Geeselad]

I see a lot of parallels on this scene with the extreme sports I've been involved with through my son. And I've met a few people who have been attracted to both in some form or other.  Adrenaline and dopamine are a powerful and addictive substances but it's all about how it's managed within a lifestyle whether it's healthy or not. 

My experience as a teacher has taught me that's it's often the system and culture that has the difficulties not the learner's. And I certainly hear many people on the scene tell about bad experiences in education and struggling to fit into school life, sadly, for many today, that hasn't changed. 

[Geeselad]

I good friend did said to me recently, ' the all nighter scene is full of broken people, trying to pick up the pieces'. I'm sure there's some truth in that. 

Edited April 9 by Geeselad

[Sheffieldsoulg]

5 hours ago, nstomp97 said:

Hi Amy,

As someone doing a postgraduate degree in Psychology - studied in the areas of belonging, community, and collecting behaviour, I find your reflections on neurodiversity within the context of the Northern Soul scene intriguing yet overly generalised. Whilst it's commendable that you're exploring the intersection of neurodiversity with cultural phenomena, I believe your approach may benefit from a more nuanced perspective.

Firstly, it's essential to acknowledge that while certain behaviours and preferences you've highlighted might resonate with traits associated with neurodiversity, they are not exclusive indicators. Many individuals without neurodiverse conditions also exhibit these behaviours. Therefore, attributing them solely to neurodiversity might oversimplify the complexity of human behaviour.

Moreover, the Northern Soul scene, is more aptly studied through an anthropological lens rather than solely through the framework of neurodiversity. The book, "The Northern Soul Scene" by Sarah Raine, offers a comprehensive anthropological exploration of the scene, providing valuable insights into its cultural significance, rituals, and social dynamics. This could serve as a more appropriate starting point for understanding the intricacies of the scene.

Whilst it's plausible that certain aspects of the scene might resonate with individuals with ADHD or Autism, it's crucial not to conflate correlation with causation. The behaviours you've highlighted, such as record collecting or DJing, may indeed appeal to individuals with specific cognitive profiles, but they also hold significance within the broader cultural context of the scene.

Furthermore, your mention of drug use and escapism within the scene could potentially perpetuate stereotypes and stigmatise individuals with neurodiverse conditions. Whilst it's essential to acknowledge the prevalence of certain behaviours, it's equally important to approach the topic with sensitivity and avoid reinforcing negative associations.

Whilst your reflections offer an intriguing perspective on the scene, I believe a more nuanced approach is necessary. By acknowledging the multifaceted nature of human behaviour and the cultural context of the scene, we can gain a deeper understanding of its dynamics without oversimplifying or misattributing certain traits.

ATB 

I don’t claim to be a northern soul expert, I’ve just pointed out some of the cross overs I’ve observed in how the scene may be of interest to neurodiverse people and how it can be really good for them. It’s something I jotted down in about half an hour, which got a positive response with many people saying they appreciated hence sharing it in this forum, as I thought it might resonate with some. 

I could reference all of my points however I wasn’t aiming for a scholarly article, just some further awareness which people can take or leave at their leisure. My intention wasn’t to target all people on the soul scene and as I said I was open to people’s thoughts which I have taken on board. 

I appreciate different nuances however this was a reflection of my personal experiences so far, so I’m not really sure how that can be changed. I think it’s sometimes unhelpful to tell or imply to others that they don’t know enough, sometimes it’s better to show them the way with kindness because otherwise they will stop asking and the sharing of knowledge ends. 
 

I’ve learnt not to underestimate people , there’s something to be learnt from them all. 
 

From the comments the gear must have been decent then bring back coaches and not driving back down the M1 at 6am  

[Simsy]

10 hours ago, Woodbutcher said:

To be honest this reminds me fondly of the sort of thing that the mighty Fudge would spend ten minutes pummelling you verbally with at 4am in a corner of the 100 Club , before giving you 'that' grin and wandering off leaving you feeling mildly abused and knowing he'd done you up yet again ... love you mate ... 

Laughing here, he once had my wife believe Keith Money was a catalogue underwear model!

[Woodbutcher]

11 minutes ago, Simsy said:

Laughing here, he once had my wife believe Keith Money was a catalogue underwear model!

And he hasn't changed a bit , I'm just slightly more wise to him 30 years later ... 

[Hooker1951]

What a load of cobblers, 

ML

[Kathryn Magson]

18 hours ago, Chatty said:

That explains it, I thought I was suffering from something that's why I took all those drugs back in the day....

[Geeselad]

12 hours ago, Sheffieldsoulg said:

I don’t claim to be a northern soul expert, I’ve just pointed out some of the cross overs I’ve observed in how the scene may be of interest to neurodiverse people and how it can be really good for them. It’s something I jotted down in about half an hour, which got a positive response with many people saying they appreciated hence sharing it in this forum, as I thought it might resonate with some. 

I could reference all of my points however I wasn’t aiming for a scholarly article, just some further awareness which people can take or leave at their leisure. My intention wasn’t to target all people on the soul scene and as I said I was open to people’s thoughts which I have taken on board. 

I appreciate different nuances however this was a reflection of my personal experiences so far, so I’m not really sure how that can be changed. I think it’s sometimes unhelpful to tell or imply to others that they don’t know enough, sometimes it’s better to show them the way with kindness because otherwise they will stop asking and the sharing of knowledge ends. 
 

I’ve learnt not to underestimate people , there’s something to be learnt from them all. 
 

From the comments the gear must have been decent then bring back coaches and not driving back down the M1 at 6am  

By 1987, regular coaches from nighters were a thing of the past, nighters finished at 8, and I'd often have to walk back to the bus station and sit on a national express for 4 hours!

[Monny1916]

16 hours ago, Shinehead said:

What next medics walking round venues with clipboards observing the punters at play

Hopefully with a pocket full of 10 for a quid 

[Paulb]

Hi Amy,

I don’t usually post on here but I think your post is very interesting and I totally agree with all the points you make.

This won’t make any sense to those that aren’t neurodivergent (clear to see from some of the responses), but it resonates with me.

ADHD is not widely understood, even for the people that have it! Constantly chasing excitement, routine, familiarity, hyper focus, impulsive behaviour - all available on the soul scene and in abundance.

Obviously, the initial attraction is the music, but I think you are absolutely bang on with the other elements.

I hope this thread doesn’t get inundated with replies from people that are uninformed of what neurodiversity actually is, or think it’s a load of rubbish, as it would be great to hear more from other people that can really relate to this. 

 

[Geeselad]

I can't understand folk that think they need to comment on a thread they apparently find irrelevant.

[Mike]

off topic posts removed

ask all to stick to the topic

if you wanna moan about education systems, potholes, dentists etc etc am sure that there are better suited places

thanks

[Mike]

14 minutes ago, Carty said:

 

post dropped as per below

two things

#1 terms of use are here

https://www.soul-source.co.uk/terms/

#2 moderation discussion

Moderation Comments

Please do not discuss moderation on the topic as it can disrupt the discussion flow. Use the Freebasing forum.

 https://www.soul-source.co.uk/source-help/content-guidelines/forum-guidelines-r38/

 

[Kenb]

Surely you can “shoehorn” any ‘extreme/ unusual/ ADHD/spectral type behaviour’ into anything…Beit Northern Soul, Football Fandom, Train spotting, stamp collecting, Eurovision, and so on. None of which is cause… just effect.

[Sheffieldsoulg]

3 hours ago, Kenb said:

Surely you can “shoehorn” any ‘extreme/ unusual/ ADHD/spectral type behaviour’ into anything…Beit Northern Soul, Football Fandom, Train spotting, stamp collecting, Eurovision, and so on. None of which is cause… just effect.

I never said there was any causation - what I’ve pointed out is how ‘soulin’ can be a good fit for neurodiverse people. 

[Solidsoul]

On 09/04/2024 at 12:03, Sheffieldsoulg said:

This may be controversial…  

I’m not saying every soulie is neurodiverse however these are some of my reflections. 

I’ve been thinking about neurodiversity and Northern Soul. I have been invited as a Guest Speaker at a Learning Disability Nursing conference in Belfast this week. As a result I’d begun documenting my own and the experiences of other people I know. 

My reflections particularly relate to Autism and ADHD. 

Some examples I’d thought about were maybe how in the past and even to this day travelling all over the country is something exciting and how on impulse many soulies did and do decide to travel to events. People would of been soulin Friday to Sunday with little thought about consequence on Monday . There’s the adrenaline rush from intense physical exercise, and a dopamine hit from hearing a new record.  

Record collecting - this is something that is a perfect hyperfixation, it’s addictive something that people with adhd might get hooked on, then there’s the potential photographic memory element of remembering labels, musicians, producers and the remembering of matrix numbers. There’s the predictable routine ritual of putting the record on the turntable. Completists who search for specific records/items may be another positive example of preserving the music. 

Researching again goes hand in hand with special interest, the amount of people I know with such a sheer and vast knowledge is insane, in particular around the history of the scene and artists. A strong sense of justice and fairness aligns with ensuring artists get the recognition they deserve, and social justice around reappropriating the music.

Djing, your up their alone yet sharing the music with others. A great hobby, and way of having a starting point for conversation with others. ADHD and intuitively reading the room picking up on the energies and observing what records to select. 

Dancing alone, yet with others no need for physical touch, you can get hot and sweaty no bother, you don’t need anyone to dance with so no social interactions needed other than bumping into someone ‘sorry mate’. Spinning lots of spinning and repetitive dance movements could meet people’s needs to stim. Being in the zone hyperfocus on the present and being free from other thoughts and worries. 

All-nighters & hyperactivity it’s commonly known autistic people and those with adhd can have difficulties with sleep a solution go out dancing all night, burn off energy and be active. 

Top 500 familiarity - I can’t speak for all people however nostalgia and predictability can be a big comfort to a lot of people. 

A set of social norms - clear expectations/social cues which can help people avoiding feeling awkward. You go in, you pay, you sit where you normally do (left front of stage for me) with folk you might know (chances are you know someone), you might say hello, you dance, you leave. 

Sensory needs - 4x4 beat that just hits right, it’s dark super dark (or they might have disco lights ) something for all. You can wear comfy attire things that don’t restrict you (unless you’re a cool mod ). 

Promoters/event planners meticulously planning and coordinating weekenders, weekly events, nighters - again something people with a passion for it with adhd/and or Autism would excel at. 

Drug use/escapism - again not all partake however some do and substance use and adhd have been commonly linked in research. 

Rare Soul - a smaller collective of folk an inner circle, where again you tend to see the same faces which again beings belonging through a niche interest.

Trauma, ADHD and Autism - research shows that people with ADHD and Autism are much more likely to have experienced trauma. Some soulies describe soulin as their solace, a place where they have regained their confidence and found a support network. 

I’d like to thank the people who responded to my initial Facebook post and would be interested to know others thoughts  

Amy Hodkin
              KTF 

How are you the judge of what is or not signs of autism and ADHD based on your personal likes, loves or dislikes and prejudices?

Women get there breasts cut open to put in silicone plastic, faces injected with botox. Other people get there ears mutilated to wear earrings. Tattoos etc. Are these signs of your mental issues?

People do dangerous things like Motorcycling, Skiing, Boxing etc at risk of permanent injury or death when it isn't necessary. Is this a sign of ADHD Autism?

Drinking alcohol or extreme fitness regimes, more signs of Autism or ADHD? 

I would not be arrogant enough to decide if these behaviours were signs of ADHD/Autism or not, or to indiscriminately label people with it I have never ever met!

Edited April 11 by Solidsoul

[Paulb]

3 hours ago, Solidsoul said:

How are you the judge of what is or not signs of autism and ADHD based on your personal likes, loves or dislikes and prejudices?

Women get there breasts cut open to put in silicone plastic, faces injected with botox. Other people get there ears mutilated to wear earrings. Tattoos etc. Are these signs of your mental issues?

People do dangerous things like Motorcycling, Skiing, Boxing etc at risk of permanent injury or death when it isn't necessary. Is this a sign of ADHD Autism?

Drinking alcohol or extreme fitness regimes, more signs of Autism or ADHD? 

I would not be arrogant enough to decide if these behaviours were signs of ADHD/Autism or not, or to indiscriminately label people with it I have never ever met!

Amy is simply saying that the soul scene could be very appealing for people that are neurodiverse, not that everyone on it is neurodiverse.

 

[Kenb]

11 hours ago, Sheffieldsoulg said:

I never said there was any causation - what I’ve pointed out is how ‘soulin’ can be a good fit for neurodiverse people. 

Fair enough

[Solidsoul]

4 hours ago, Paulb said:

Amy is simply saying that the soul scene could be very appealing for people that are neurodiverse, not that everyone on it is neurodiverse.

 

No she's not. That's not what she started out saying. She's being disrespectful of a whole lot of people past and present.

Edited April 11 by Solidsoul

[Shinehead]

Seems to me because Amy is a nurse specialising in the subject and also a Northern Soul fan,she is trying to join the dots between the two when there isn't one , as other people have stated most activities with fanatics could also attract people of the spectrum but it does not mean that is the reason for the attraction, just that like everyone else there was an initial starting place that led us in to the activity with the spectrum or without, Northern Soul usually the youth club,friends or older siblings with a love of the music 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 11 by Shinehead

[Chalky]

1 hour ago, Shinehead said:

Seems to me because Amy is a nurse specialising in the subject and also a Northern Soul fan,she is trying to join the dots between the two when there isn't one , as other people have stated most activities with fanatics could also attract people of the spectrum but it does not mean that is the reason for the attraction, just that like everyone else there was an initial starting place that led us in to the activity with the spectrum or without, Northern Soul usually the youth club,friends or older siblings with a love of the music 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I don’t know anyone who found the scene because of their condition. Those I know with either ADHD or and especially autism wouldn’t do very well in a scene where it could at times be an unforgiving place. It might be all fluffy and full of divs now but it did once have an edge to it and their were people to be avoided if you wasn’t that clued up. 

[Chalky]

Most took drugs because a) they enjoyed them and b) they served a purpose keeping you up, not because of a condition. Because of what was taken it often resulted in a lot of ADHD through the night  

[Woodbutcher]

Lots of bug-eyed "characters" and dark corners best avoided unless accompanied by an "adult"... happy times with no fluffies and handbags ... 

[Sheffieldsoulg]

4 hours ago, Chalky said:

Most took drugs because a) they enjoyed them and b) they served a purpose keeping you up, not because of a condition. Because of what was taken it often resulted in a lot of ADHD through the night  

I didn’t say they took drugs because of adhd, the current treatment for adhd is amphetamines. Haha if you took them with adhd or not you’d deffo be up all night.  

[Sheffieldsoulg]

5 hours ago, Shinehead said:

Seems to me because Amy is a nurse specialising in the subject and also a Northern Soul fan,she is trying to join the dots between the two when there isn't one , as other people have stated most activities with fanatics could also attract people of the spectrum but it does not mean that is the reason for the attraction, just that like everyone else there was an initial starting place that led us in to the activity with the spectrum or without, Northern Soul usually the youth club,friends or older siblings with a love of the music 

 

 

 

 

 

 

There’s lots of people who have reached out to me from this post who have said they completely agree with what I’ve said I guess if people don’t understand adhd or autism and don’t belong to that group they don’t understand where I’m coming from. There’s lots of people with adhd and autism on scene they just don’t go around with it on a T-shirt. 
 

if you don’t agree with my view point that’s fine but lots of people have agreed. 

[Sheffieldsoulg]

15 hours ago, Solidsoul said:

How are you the judge of what is or not signs of autism and ADHD based on your personal likes, loves or dislikes and prejudices?

Women get there breasts cut open to put in silicone plastic, faces injected with botox. Other people get there ears mutilated to wear earrings. Tattoos etc. Are these signs of your mental issues?

People do dangerous things like Motorcycling, Skiing, Boxing etc at risk of permanent injury or death when it isn't necessary. Is this a sign of ADHD Autism?

Drinking alcohol or extreme fitness regimes, more signs of Autism or ADHD? 

I would not be arrogant enough to decide if these behaviours were signs of ADHD/Autism or not, or to indiscriminately label people with it I have never ever met!

As a person with adhd I posted this as my personal reflections I never said it’s everyone this post also included feedback from other neurodiverse people who agreed with what I’d said. 

[Fiftyboiledeggs]

Read these:

 

https://www.prospectmagazine.co.uk/culture/37785/pills-bills-and-heartache-how-big-pharma-helped-create-our-mental-health-crisis

 

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/big-pharma-s-manufactured-epidemic-the-misdiagnosis-of-adhd/

Edited April 11 by Fiftyboiledeggs

[Chalky]

I know a few with Autism.  One doesn’t like taking orders, another doesn’t get on well in any kind of social setting, another doesn’t like much of any kind of regime.  None would really be suited to the scene, certainly not in days gone by when certain people would pounce on any individual who looked lets say a little vulnerable. Clearly some did survive but I doubt that is down to the scene or any aspect of it .  The love of the music is the over riding factor for the biggest majority of us. 

[Chalky]

9 hours ago, Sheffieldsoulg said:

I didn’t say they took drugs because of adhd, the current treatment for adhd is amphetamines. Haha if you took them with adhd or not you’d deffo be up all night.  

My nephew is on the spectrum. He had learning difficulties and an inability to take orders, his schooling was practically zero. He would never be able to get into the collecting side of the scene as he has no ability to remember things really.  Because of his unruly behaviour, probably due to a lack of understanding and specialised schooling he had trouble making friends.  He got in with a gang who showed him friendship who were trouble, smoking dope which most kids seem to do these days regardless of their ability, he got into lots of trouble with the police.  Thankfully he outgrew that gang, managed to find a job and hold it down after a dozen jobs he got the sack from because he wouldn’t take orders etc etc.  

I don’t think it is as simply as you suggest. I guess where you are on the spectrum has a lot to do how you get on in life.