What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a term that was introduced by a sociologist diagnosed with autism, Judy Singer in 1990. (1) The term encompasses the groups of people who learn and experience the world differently from what is viewed as “the norm”, or “neurotypical”. To use Judy Singer’s exact words: “Neurodiversity refers to the virtually infinite neuro-cognitive variability within Earth’s human population. It points to the fact that every human has a unique nervous system with a unique combination of abilities and needs.” (2)The use of neurodiversity or neurodivergent is a strengths based terminology that encourages society to shift the narrative from disability or deficit to a more positive view of different.
It is important to realize and recognize that neurodiversity and a diagnosis are two separate concepts. A person does not need a diagnosis to be part of the neurodiverse community. The diagnosis is a tool that offers people additional resources to support them in a neurotypical world. The importance of the distinction between neurodiverse and diagnosis is the focus of diagnosis on a treatment plan and a way to “cure” the behaviors. Neurodiversity is strengths focused and does not rely on the concept of “fixing” a set of behaviors to fit into the neurotypical world.
Under the neurodiversity umbrella are several different conditions. The most commonly explored are ADD/ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and learning disabilities such as dyslexia or dyscalculia. Also under this umbrella is dyspraxia, dysnomia, intellectual disabilities, Tourette’s syndrome, and some mental health conditions such as schizoaffective disorder.
It is hard to find consistent statistics on the neurodiverse community due to the continued exploration of what it means to be neurodiverse. Most research focuses on AD(H)D, autism, and dyslexia as the core of neurodiversity. It is hypothesized that 20% of the adult population fit within the neurodiversity spectrum. (3) With this many people affected, it is important to look at what actions can be taken to create a supportive environment for all people.
So what can be done? It is time to redefine how we define and measure productivity. For some people, the 9-5 work schedule is ideal and they are capable of performing required duties with little to no change from the societal norm, while others may struggle significantly with this. There are many accommodations and resources available to those on the neurodiverse spectrum. It is important to research available resources for school and work. Often resources can be found through disability services at schools or through the HR department of an employer. There are additional resources available online, www.askjan.org is an excellent resource for learning more about accommodations available under the ADA.
Remember, there are many people who are on the neurodiverse spectrum. It can be someone you work with, your neighbor, a friend, or a teacher. Everyone experiences their world differently, the most important thing is to be kind to others and respect the differences we each have.
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/neurodiversity https://www.neurodiversityhub.org/what-is-neurodiversity https://www.csrwire.com/press_releases/708931-why-there-has-never-been-better-time- neurodiversity