Therapeutic Applications of Remote Aviation for Neurodiverse Individuals (TARA-ND): A Neuroergonomic Approach to Strength-Based Therapy for Neurodivergence

Abstract

Contemporary advances in affective computing, neurodiversity-affirming practice, and remote aviation reveal how technologically mediated sensorimotor engagement can support cognitive–affective regulation. Building on these convergences, TARA-ND (Therapeutic Applications of Remote Aviation for Neurodiverse Individuals) is proposed as a novel neuroergonomic framework. The framework reconceptualizes small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) as adaptive therapeutic and skill-building environments for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia. While prior work has examined drone operation in relation to workload measurement, performance optimization, and situational awareness, comparatively little attention has been given to its neurodiversity-affirming therapeutic potential. TARA-ND addresses this gap by positioning remote aviation not as a corrective intervention, but as an embodied human–machine interaction that supports executive function, social navigation, and positive neurodivergent identity formation. The framework is organized around five pillars: Sensory-Safe Flight Design, Executive Function Flight Scaffolding, Aerial Regulation Loop, Strength-Based Mission Identity, and Social Navigation & Co-Pilot Collaboration. Together, these pillars align sensory conditions, therapeutic experience, mission identity, and collaborative roles with the participant’s specific neuroprofile. Contrary to just normalizing neurodivergence, TARA-ND modulates the environment around it, allowing therapeutic change to arise through agency, interaction, and strengths-based engagement. In doing so, it proposes remote aviation as a novel, testable pathway for inclusive neuroergonomic intervention.

Keywords: Neurodiversity, ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, Neuroergonomics, sUAS, TARA-ND Framework, Strengths-based Therapy, Inclusive Interface Design

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007394