When Judy Singer, a sociologist on the autism spectrum, began using the term “neurodiverse” in the 1990s, she was one of the first in the movement to reject the notion of being disabled.
Behavior
What is neurodiversity?
When Judy Singer, a sociologist on the autism spectrum, began using the term “neurodiverse” in the 1990s, she was one of the first in the movement to reject the notion of being disabled.
She believed that individuals “neurodiverse” were not deficient but had peculiar strengths not recognized by society. Their brains were working differently from the brains of others. Since then, the term has been used widely by activists in the community, such as neurodivergent influencers on TikTok and Twitter, and does wonders when promoting its strengths in schools and college settings.
If you want to learn more about neurodiversity and what it means, carry on reading.
Education resources
What is neurodiversity?
If you’re not diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition, then you are referred to as neurotypical. You may have an innate ability to pick up on other people’s cognitions and understand how to interact with them. You may have thought very little about what your life would be like if you had never been born with this skill, as it might come as naturally to you as breathing or riding a bike.
To be neurodiverse means that a person thinks and processes information about the world in a unique and individualistic way. Because of this, it can be tough for others to understand them, as they usually behave differently from the general population. Sadly, this is why these people tend to get labeled as “disabled” by society; they do not behave in a way that is regarded as typical. Hence they are lacking in a fundamental part of what makes them human.
This, however, doesn’t always go both ways. Regarding their challenges, a communication barrier can exist between those diagnosed and those not. In this case, a neurotypical individual should aim to meet a neurodiverse person halfway with their needs, ensuring that both parties are heard when expressing what they want.
While it’s debated that there is a grey area between neurodiversity and neurotypicality, it’s thought that most conditions exist on a spectrum with a cut-off point. This is why some people can exhibit symptoms but not score high enough on the assessment to receive an official diagnosis.
Neurodiversity has now broadened out to encompass various cognitive differences, including:
- Dyspraxia – characterized by difficulty in planning and processing motor tasks.
- Dyslexia – in which the individual struggles to read.
- Dyscalculia – wherein someone has challenges with mathematical calculations and arithmetic.
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) – with this condition, the diagnosed person might have impulse control problems and a compulsive need to perform motor skills.
- Autism spectrum condition (ASC or ASD) – individuals on the spectrum might have a range of challenges, including sensory challenges and difficulties understanding social cues.
All of this shows that the brain functions of a neurodiverse person are very different from that of a neurotypical’s thinking and processing style.
Strengths of the neurodiverse
Neurodiverse people often have formidable strengths that come alongside their conditions. People with autism, for example, are known for being hyper-fixated on special interests, which can make them very knowledgeable in a certain field. In contrast, those with ADHD are known to be exceptionally apt at fast-paced jobs or responding to chaotic environments, making them great fits for high-responsibility, physical jobs like firemen or policemen.
While neurodiversity does create challenges, it can also help someone formulate perceptions of the world that have previously been unthought of. No wonder many creators and theologists are diagnosed with autism, dyslexia, or another condition on the list. These real-life applications can benefit everyone, which is why we should nurture those with diagnoses to be their best selves. It is even thought that Albert Einstein was autistic!
Challenging misconceptions
Of course, even if there is information, misconceptions are still prevalent.
For example, far too many people believe that neurodiversity doesn’t exist and that all humans have brains that are wired the same. If someone doesn’t understand how to behave in a group, look after themselves, or make small talk, then they must be uneducated or victims of neglect. In some cases, individuals struggling in society may be falsely labeled with another form of neurodiversity or even classified as a sufferer of a severe mental health condition, which paints a very negative portrayal of their behaviors. This can lead them to go through their lives feeling worthless and undeserving of a place in society.
Some people even think that neurodiverse people lack intelligence, which explains their non-conforming behavior. This is far from true. Even if individuals appear to have difficulties in certain areas that come naturally to others, this doesn’t mean they have a low IQ.
Disability allowances
Even though many people have rejected the idea that neurodiversity is a disability, it’s still classified as one under the law. However, this doesn’t make it a problem and can be seen as a positive with all the benefits it brings.
People with a disability can become protected under the law. Suppose they disclose their diagnosis to an employer. In that case, they and the company they work for must treat the individual with integrity and equal rights to that of a neurotypical employee or interview applicant.
They can also get benefits and funding from governing bodies and charities to live their lives comfortably, like allowances for students studying at university.
What to do if you think you might be neurodiverse
If the above information resonated with you while reading, it might be worth looking into getting a diagnosis. You can start this process by booking an appointment with a doctor or psychologist.
Some of your challenges might include the following:
- Impulsivity and reckless decision-making
- Sensory overload
- Not understanding other people’s verbal and physical cues
- Having poor connections with others
- Being fascinated by one particular interest
- Regular social misunderstandings
- And much more!
You might have grown up thinking your different way of processing information is normal and that it’s a trait many individuals exhibit. But as you have discussed these viewpoints with others, you might have been met with their confusion.
Working with professionals can help you to understand the world from other people’s perspectives, thus increasing your sense of self-advocation and fulfillment in life. You can also learn to tell people your challenges and recognize when someone is prepared to understand your perspective.
Summary
Now that we have reached the end of this article, here is a quick overview of what it means to be neurodiverse.
- Neurodiversity is a freeing term that insists on the conditions it covers being characterized as normal brain differences rather than disabilities.
- It can help reduce stigma in society, showing others that learning and thinking differences do not reduce someone’s intelligence or ability to provide great things to society.
- Those with a neurodiverse condition experience the world in unique ways that are not usual for most neurotypical people.
