Emma answers “What was missing in Vanessa's childhood...”

A Goodreads user asked this question about My Dark Vanessa:

What was missing in Vanessa's childhood that made her such easy pickings? I kept waiting for some psychological explanation from her therapist. Vanessa was an only child and, except for a mother who was annoyingly intrusive and sometimes critical, there was no abuse, nothing to make her crave such intense "adoration," no explanation for her being so easily manipulated.

Emma This is actually a very obvious question if you know anything about neurodivergence. Vanessa is very clearly undiagnosed ADHD to anyone with knowledge…moreThis is actually a very obvious question if you know anything about neurodivergence. Vanessa is very clearly undiagnosed ADHD to anyone with knowledge of the topic (it's textbook enough that I would be shocked if Russell didn't do this on purpose), and this exact scenario is a very real danger for young, neurodivergent women, especially those without a diagnosis (which is most, because neurodivergent women aren't usually diagnosed until adulthood). Being a socially awkward outsider, difficulty reading others' intentions, intense emotions and impulsivity are all traits that make people in this group targets for predators. Multiple recent studies have found that ND girls are three times more likely to experience sexual abuse before they turn 18 than NT girls.(less)

flag

Arielle The beginning where she describes her symptoms stopped me in my tracks! I’m halfway through the audiobook and still no mention of her diagnosis. Did a ...more
Dec 19, 2022 06:56AM · flag

Elizabeth Huang Yes, 100% this, especially with the lack of impulse control. The author kept highlighting her undiagnosed ADHD, talking about her messy room, the garb ...more
Apr 27, 2024 06:18PM · flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more