Museum accessibility and neurodiversity in the Netherlands
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2025-08-25
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en
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Abstract
This thesis investigates how Dutch museums can enhance accessibility for neurodivergent
young adults, with a particular focus on individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD). While museum accessibility initiatives often prioritize physi cal or autism autism-related accommodations, ADHD remains comparatively underexplored within cultural
inclusion discourse. Drawing on a mixed mixed-methods approach, the research combines survey
data from neurodivergent young adults with semi semi-structured interviews with museum
professionals. The survey captures visitor perspectives on barriers, existing measures, and
desired improvements, while the interviews provide insight into institutional priorities,
constraints, and emerging practices. Analysis is framed by concept s including universal
design, visitor agency, and participatory practice, as articulated by scholars such as Black,
Eardley and Jones, and Timothy. Findings reveal gaps between institutional intentions and
visitor experiences, particularly regarding sensor y management, cognitive accessibility, and
flexibility of engagement. The study concludes with evidence evidence-based recommendations for
systemic, rather than piecemeal, change, advocating for accessibility as an ongoing,
collaborative process embedded in museum design and policy. By foregrounding ADHD and
the voices of young adults, this thesis aims to expand the scope of museum accessibility
scholarship and encourage Dutch museums museums—and cultural institutions more broadly broadly—to reconsider how they welcome and engage n eurodiverse audiences.
Keywords : ADHD - Young Adults - Museum Accessibility - The Netherlands – Neurodiversity
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