I am excited to delve into this topic because there has been a lot of controversy and confusion around neurodiversity, and the meaning and significance of neurodivergence. My goal in this blog is to discuss this topic so that you, as the reader, will come to a better understanding and form your own conclusions.
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, nonjudgmental language. Some advocates feel supported with person-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 on acknowledging an individual’s diverse strengths as well as challenges. Using the term neurodivergent does not negate the fact that a person who falls on this spectrum has a medical condition that needs treatment, but more so that it is not the main focus. Originally, neurodivergent was mostly used to describe a person on the Autism Spectrum or an individual with 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:
- Emphasizing acceptance and inclusion
- Focusing on a strengths-based approach
- Valuing and respect for individual differences
- Advocacy for support systems
- Embracing variation over disorder
References:
Cleveland Health Clinic
Harvard Health