What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodivergent Brain

I am excited to discuss this topic because there has been so much controversy and confusion around what neurodiversity and what being neurodivergent means and why. My goal in this blog is to discuss this topic and what it means. As the reader based on the information, my hope is you come to a better understanding and can create your own conclusion.

What is Neurodiversity?

The term neurodiversity was originally coined by Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist, to promote equality and inclusion among neurological minorities and shift the conversations from the medical model way of thinking to a social model. That term has evolved and has gained various meanings from different communities. The word neurodivergent stemmed from the coined term neurodiversity. Judy’s description was to recognize that everyone’s brain develops uniquely. Similar to fingerprints, no two brains are the same. The word acknowledges that people are differently abled versus focusing on being disabled.

A main area of focus during the movement was to encourage inclusive, nonjudgemental language.

Some advocates feel supported with the person's first language—a person with ADHD—while some in the Autism community prefer identity-first language—an autistic person.

What is neurodivergent?

It is important to recognize that neurodivergent is not a medical term but simply a descriptor.  The focus is to notice how a person has various strengths and areas that are challenges. Using the term neurodivergent does not negate the fact that persons who fall on this spectrum have medical conditions that need treatment but more so that is not the main focus.

Originally, neurodivergent was mostly used to describe a person who fell on the Autism Spectrum or experienced neurological or developmental conditions, similar to ADHD or learning disabilities.

Now, some conditions that may fall under the umbrella of neurodivergent are:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder

• ADHD

• Down syndrome

• Specific Learning Disorders

• Dyspraxia

• Intellectual Disabilities

• Bipolar Disorder

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

• Sensory Processing Disorder

• Tourette syndrome

• Williams syndrome

Depending on who you talk to this list may include or exclude different diagnoses or populations.

Key aspects of neurodiversity:

1. Emphasizing acceptance and inclusion

2. Focusing on a strengths-based approach

3. Valuing and respect for individual difference

4. Advocacy for support systems

5. Embracing variation over disorder

References:

Cleveland Health Clinic

Harvard Health