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

Singh, Suvipra · 2026 · Crossref

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007394

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Summary

This paper proposes TARA-ND (Therapeutic Applications of Remote Aviation for Neurodiverse Individuals), a novel neuroergonomic framework that reconceptualizes small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) as adaptive therapeutic environments for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyspraxia. The research addresses a gap in current drone operation literature, which has focused primarily on workload measurement and performance optimization, by exploring the neurodiversity-affirming therapeutic potential of remote aviation. The core motivation is to shift therapeutic design away from verbal, static, clinic-bound models that often rely on neurotypical expectations, toward embodied human-machine interactions that support cognitive-affective regulation through agency and strengths-based engagement. The TARA-ND framework is grounded in interdisciplinary principles from neuroergonomics, affective computing, neurodiversity-affirming practice, collaborative learning, and positive psychology. It is structured around five pillars: Sensory-Safe Flight Design, which ensures nervous-system safety through predictability and adjustable stimulation; Executive Function Flight Scaffolding, which externalizes cognitive demands via checklists and visual timers; the Aerial Regulation Loop, which uses physiological indicators to adapt flight parameters in real-time rather than requiring conscious self-monitoring; Strength-Based Mission Identity, which reframes neurodivergent traits as functional assets; and Social Navigation & Co-Pilot Collaboration, which structures social interaction through defined roles and flexible communication pathways. The framework is operationalized through a four-stage session flow: neuroprofile mapping, safety setup, adaptive flight missions, and reflection/transfer. As a theoretical proposal, the paper does not present empirical results but outlines a testable pathway for future research. It argues that by modulating the environment around the participant’s neuroprofile, remote aviation can support executive function, social navigation, and positive identity formation. The significance of TARA-ND lies in its shift from deficit-focused correction to environment-mediated regulation, where stabilization arises implicitly through curated interaction. The paper concludes that future studies should empirically evaluate TARA-ND across diverse populations, examining outcomes such as stress reduction, confidence, executive function, and real-world skill transfer, while refining associated adaptive AI systems to ensure ethical and user-centered personalization.

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• workload measurement