Neurodivergent people have differences in the way their brains work, even if they have the same medical diagnosis. This is the concept of neurodiversity, which recognizes that both brain function and behavioral traits are simply indicators of the diversity of the human population. Neurodiversity covers learning difficulties, such as dyslexia, and developmental conditions, including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is possible to become neurodiverse as a result of physical or emotional injury or trauma, but in most cases, neurodiversity tends to exist from birth onward.
When teachers and doctors are not trained to recognize and understand neurodiversity, and specialists are so specialized that children are not evaluated holistically, it can be difficult to diagnose. However, recognizing that neurodiverse people have differences, rather than deficits, is very helpful in helping children develop their potential and thrive. Supporters argue that some of the things identified as disabilities are due to problems in the environment of people with neurodiversity. The neurodiversity movement was launched by Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist who is also on the autism spectrum.
It suggests that a large proportion of children in England could have neurodiversity that has not yet been diagnosed. Neurodiversity has shifted from focusing on people with a formal diagnosis of autism, ADHD or a learning disorder to including a larger group of people, many of whom self-identify as neurodiverse. Singer saw neurodiversity as a social justice movement, to promote the equality of what he called “neurological minorities”. In some cases, neurodiverse ways of seeing and making sense of the world can result in interesting discoveries and intriguing results.
The more teachers, doctors and professionals know about a particular neurodiversity, the more they can recognize its characteristics. If you're diagnosed with any type of neurodiversity, informing friends, family, and colleagues about it can help them understand your condition. To diversify your social networks with voices and advocates for neurodivergents, some of the best options to follow are Neurodivergent Activist, Nurturing Neurodiversity, Paige Layle and The Chronic Couple.
