Hyperfocus with Rae Jacobson What could the AI boom mean for neurodivergent people?
Sep 25, 2025
Dr. Amy Gaeta, an AI ethicist and researcher at the University of Cambridge who is autistic, dives deep into the intersection of AI and neurodiversity. She discusses how AI can be both beneficial and harmful in the workplace, highlighting its potential biases against disabled individuals. Amy explores the role of assistive technology and practical AI applications, while addressing the risks of chatbot therapy. She provides a thoughtful look at the future of AI, advocating for community-led models that prioritize accessibility and justice for neurodivergent people.
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Long Quiz Mislabels User
- Dr. Amy Gaeta tested an ADHD app that required a very long quiz which she found impossible to finish without losing focus.
- The app then labeled her 98% likely ADHD, which she questioned given the quiz experience.
Who Decides 'Meaningful' AI Use
- AI in workplaces is pushed as necessary for competitiveness and often framed as 'meaningful' integration.
- Who defines 'meaningful' use matters because it often prioritizes productivity over workers' wellbeing.
Surveillance Amplifies Workplace Ableism
- AI surveillance tools track productivity and amplify scrutiny already faced by disabled workers.
- Such tools ignore alternative work rhythms and can punish necessary breaks or non-linear schedules.