The term neurodiversity is used to refer to 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. The neurodiversity movement advocates for the idea that our brains are different and that everyone, regardless of whether they are neurotypical or neurodivergent, should be treated equally by people, the workplace and the external environment. The self-identifying label of “neurodivergent” was initially used to refer to autistic people. However, in recent years it has been used to describe those who think, behave and learn differently from what is considered normal in society.
Being neurodivergent should not be seen as an inherent deficit, but rather as a difference in the way we process the world around us. People are described as neurodiverse when their thinking patterns, behaviors, or learning styles are outside of what is considered typical or neurotypical. Neurodivergence is often first identified through a diagnosis, but it can exist with or without one. You may decide to consider yourself neurodivergent if you don't have a diagnosis, but you think, behave, or interact in ways that are out of the ordinary.
Since there are no medical criteria or definitions of what it means to be neurodivergent, other conditions may also be included in this term. If you self-identify as neurodivergent or fall into one of the categories included in the neurodivergence category and would like to receive help or more information, please contact Disability Services.
