Neurodiversity is an approach to education and capacity that acknowledges the fact that various neurological conditions are the result of normal changes and variations in the human genome. ADHD, autism, dyspraxia, and dyslexia are all examples of neurodiverse conditions. It is important to note that no one would consider an adult to be abnormal or defective because they cannot paint as well as a child. Similarly, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a condition that can take on many different forms, many of which occur in people who don't have ASD. The term 'neurodiversity' is used to describe the diversity of all people, but it is often used in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as other neurological or developmental conditions, such as ADHD or learning disabilities.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition; that is, its symptoms and associated behaviors and traits are the result of a person's brain developing differently during key stages of development before birth or when they were very young. Neurodiversity can include autism, ADHD, ADD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. It can be compared with terms such as race, culture, class and gender, and is useful for describing people with different characteristics and behaviors typical of neurodevelopmental diseases along with the “neurotypical majority” in a non-judgmental way. Unfortunately, due to lack of awareness, it is also common for neurodevelopmental conditions to be misdiagnosed as mental illnesses. It is increasingly recognized that, along with ADHD, a person may experience symptoms of other neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism, Asperger syndrome, Tourette syndrome, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), dyslexia, and dyspraxia. People who identify themselves as neurodivergent typically have one or more of the conditions or disorders listed above.
However, since there are no medical criteria or definitions of what it means to be neurodivergent, other conditions may also be included in this term. In neurodevelopmental conditions, there is no genuine “normal” state of mind to compare with, making treatment difficult. Many of those who take that stance say they are against it because some of the neurodivergent people have real medical conditions that need treatment. While being proactively informed about the increased number of neurodiverse conditions is great, creating an inclusive work culture is vital. Research and education on neurodiversity are increasingly important in the way doctors view and address certain disabilities and neurological conditions.
