Representations of neurodiverse and queer identity - special issue call for papers.

2026-02-09

Neurodiversity and queerness are explored across many academic disciplines including psychology, history, law, politics, media studies, education, and the creative arts. This special issue creates space for student voices on these crucial topics.

Historically and today, neurodivergent and queer people face marginalization in various forms. Changing equality laws, media representations, and societal attitudes create complex pressures for those living these identities. Research shows that neurodivergent individuals identify as LGBTQ+ at higher rates than neurotypical peers, yet the 'neuroqueer' intersection remains underexplored in scholarship.

Topics of Interest

We welcome submissions on topics including (but not limited to):

  • Intersectional representations of 'neuroqueer' characters in film, television, or video gaming
  • 'Neuroqueer' themes and representations in literature
  • Historical accounts of 'neuroqueer' identity and communities
  • 'Neuroqueer' experiences within systems like healthcare, law, and education
  • 'Neuroqueer' perspectives in creative fields including artwork, music, and performance
  • Identity formation and community building
  • Policy analysis and advocacy
  • Lived experience research and autoethnographic approaches
  • Theoretical frameworks for understanding neurodiversity and/or queerness

Traditional academic writing and creative approaches are both welcome.

About the Editorial Team

This special issue is guest-edited by researchers specializing in queer culture, policy, and lived experience. The editorial process is overseen by scholars with expertise in neurodiversity, including lived experience perspectives.

Our editorial team includes students and staff who understand these topics both academically and personally. Your work will be reviewed by people who recognize its importance and will handle it with care and respect.

The Northumbria Student Academic Journal is committed to publishing research that engages fairly with different perspectives and uses appropriate evidence. We create space for voices often marginalized in traditional academic publishing.

What Happens After You Submit

Here's the timeline from submission to publication:

March 28, 2026 - Submission deadline (midnight)

Early April 2026 - Peer review process begins

Mid-April 2026 - You receive feedback from reviewers

Late April 2026 - Submit revised version based on feedback

End of May 2026 - Publication in the journal

The Peer Review Process

All submissions go through a double-blind peer review. This means:

  • Reviewers don't know who you are
  • You don't know who the reviewers are
  • Feedback focuses purely on the work itself

Your submission will be reviewed by students and staff with expertise in your topic area. Reviews are developmental, not just evaluative. Reviewers will help you strengthen your argument, clarify your analysis, and improve your evidence. This is a learning opportunity, not a judgment.

If reviewers suggest revisions, you'll have time to make changes before final publication. We work with you through this process.

How to Prepare Your Submission

Required Elements

Your submission must include:

  1. Main text: 3,000 words maximum (including references)
  2. Abstract: 200 words maximum, summarizing your argument and findings
  3. Keywords: At least 4 keywords for indexing purposes
  4. File format: Submit as .docx (Microsoft Word document)
  5. Anonymized: Remove your name and any identifying information from the document

Formatting and Citations

For detailed guidance on formatting, images, tables, and citation style, see our submission guidelines.

We accept standard academic citation styles (APA, MLA, Harvard, Chicago). Use whichever is appropriate for your discipline and be consistent throughout.

How to Submit

Email your submission to: nsaj@northumbria.ac.uk

Deadline: Midnight on March 28, 2026

In your email, include:

  • Your name
  • Your level of study (undergraduate year/postgraduate programme)
  • Your institution
  • A brief note about your work (optional)
Support Available

Questions Before Submitting

Not sure if your work is ready? Want to discuss whether your topic fits? Need clarification on requirements?

Email us: nsaj@northumbria.ac.uk

We typically respond within 2 working days. Common questions we're happy to answer:

  • "Is my work good enough to submit?"
  • "Can I write about my own experiences?"
  • "What if I've never published before?"
  • "Can I get feedback on a draft before submitting?"

Accessibility Support

We're committed to making this process accessible. If you need:

  • Information in alternative formats
  • Extended time or adjusted deadlines due to disability
  • Support understanding the submission process
  • Other reasonable adjustments

Please contact us and we'll work with you.