What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the concept that variations in brain function and behaviour – whether neurotypical or neurodivergent are natural differences rather than disorders. Australian sociologist Judy Singer coined the term in 1998 to recognise that everyone’s brain develops in a unique way, encouraging us to see neurological differences as part of human diversity rather than deficits. Her work has led to a paradigm shift in how society perceives neurological differences, promoting a narrative of inclusion and acceptance
The neurodiversity movement emerged alongside this paradigm, aiming to achieve civil rights, equality, respect, and inclusion for neurodivergent individuals. This social justice movement advocates for acceptance and accommodations within society, especially in areas like education, healthcare, and the workplace, so neurodivergent people can thrive without stigma.
“Neurodiversity helps us embrace the richness of human thought and creativity. It highlights that everyone’s brain works differently, and that’s something to celebrate.” – Matt Tozer, Founder of The Neurodivergence Project
When to use neurodiversity: Use neurodiversity to refer to the natural variation in neurocognitive functioning across all humans, encompassing both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. It describes a biological fact of diversity in brain functioning within our species (e.g., “Our school celebrates neurodiversity by accommodating a range of learning needs.”).
Neurotypical vs Neurodivergent
Neurotypical refers to individuals whose cognitive functioning aligns with what society considers typical or expected. Many neurotypical people may not have come across terms like neurotypical, neurodivergent, neurodiverse, and neurodivergence before, as these concepts are only now becoming more widely discussed.
In contrast, neurodivergent describes individuals whose brains function differently from typical patterns, encompassing a range of neurological variations. Neurodivergent individuals may include those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurological differences. The term neurodivergent originated from the concept of neurodiversity to reflect that such differences are part of the natural variation within the human population.
When to use neurodivergent: Use neurodivergent to describe individuals or groups of people who have neurological differences (e.g., “They are neurodivergent”).
What is Neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence refers to the condition or state of having a brain that diverges from what is considered typical. It includes various neurological conditions, each with a range of characteristics and symptoms that extend beyond social, memory, or communication differences. Neurodivergence acknowledges that individuals can experience a wide array of unique cognitive patterns, strengths, and challenges.
When to use neurodivergence: Use neurodivergence to describe the condition or range of neurological differences (e.g., “Dyslexia and autism are forms of neurodivergence”).
Neurodiverse
The term neurodiverse is best used to describe groups that include a variety of neurological types, particularly when these groups encompass both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. It highlights the richness and range of cognitive diversity within a setting, such as a classroom or workplace. Although some people may describe themselves as neurodiverse, the term is most accurately applied to groups or environments that reflect a mix of different neurological perspectives.
When to use neurodiverse: Use neurodiverse to describe groups or environments that include both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals (e.g., “Our team is neurodiverse”).
Types of Neurodivergence
Some common forms of neurodivergence include, but are not limited to:
- autism: A spectrum condition that impacts social interaction, communication, and behaviour.
- ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder): Involves differences in attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
- dyslexia: Affects reading, writing, and language processing skills.
- dyspraxia: Relates to physical coordination and motor skills.
- acquired brain injury (ABI): A brain injury sustained after birth, affecting memory, attention, communication, and cognitive processing.
- Tourette’s syndrome: Involves involuntary movements or sounds (tics).
These are only a few examples; neurodivergence can present with a wide array of symptoms and characteristics, each bringing unique strengths as well as specific challenges. Recognising the variety within each type allows us to better understand and support the individuality of each person’s experience.
Why Neurodivergence Matters
By understanding and embracing neurodivergence, we open up new avenues for innovation, creativity, and collaboration. However, barriers still exist in education, employment, and society at large. Raising awareness is a critical step towards removing these barriers and fostering environments where everyone can thrive.