Publication

Abstract : Neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADHD and autism, frequently experience difficulties related to time awareness, task management, planning, and temporal regulation in everyday life. Existing productivity and assistive technologies often rely on neurotypical assumptions of consistent attention, rigid scheduling, and linear task management, limiting their effectiveness for neurodivergent users. While prior research has examined temporal cognition and executive functioning, limited work has explored how AI-based assistive systems can support neurodivergent experiences of time within non-Western contexts such as India. This study investigates time awareness, compensatory strategies, and technology use among neurodivergent adults in India through semi-structured interviews with 19 participants. Using content analysis, the study examines how participants manage time-related demands, engage with digital tools, and conceptualise ideal forms of technological support. Findings reveal heavy reliance on external temporal scaffolds, cognitive offloading systems, and interpersonal accountability, alongside dissatisfaction with rigid, impersonal, and cognitively demanding productivity applications. Based on these findings, the paper proposes a conceptual framework for AI-based personal assistants designed for neurodivergent users, emphasising proactive outreach, contextual personalisation, multimodal interaction, human-like scaffolding, and integration within familiar communication platforms such as WhatsApp.