Embracing Neurodiversity
By: Janessa Webb | Date published: July 21, 2024
Neurodiversity: “Behavior is communication. Change the environment and behaviors will change.”[1]
[1] David, Lana. “For Caregivers | ABA Therapy.” www.spectrum-aba.com. Center Point Designs, 2021. https://www.spectrum-aba.com/for-caregivers.
The definition of neurodivergent is derived from the concept of neurodiversity. This term proposes that variations in the human genome result in diverse neurocognitive conditions. Therefore, neurodiversity is not considered abnormal or unhealthy. This is based on the fact that no one should feel bad for the way they communicate or act.
The Origin of Neurodiversity
In the 1990s, the terminology of neurodiversity was coined by an Australian Autistic sociologist, Judy Singer. Singer created this term to provide support and shift conversations about individuals with learning differences from disorders, impairments, and disabilities. Neurodiversity includes; “Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Attention Deficit Disorder, Autism, Tourette syndrome, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.”[1]
[1] Kelly McCain, “Explainer: What Is Neurodivergence? Here’s What You Need to Know,” World Economic Forum, October 10, 2022. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/10/explainer-neurodivergence-mental-health/.
The Impact of Labeling
Labeling can play a negative impact. For instance, an Autistic individual can be identified as ‘high-functioning’ and ‘low-functioning’. The intention of labeling disregards the diversity of individuals. Therefore, it can lead to the demographics slipping through the sluggish. This means that labeling is a barrier for Autistic individuals. It is an obstacle that can cause an individual to feel that they do not fit into a “normal” category.
The Importance of Neurodiversity
Due to the effects of labeling, neurodiversity becomes crucial. It provides major support to advocates of Autistic rights, and applies to a range of developmental pathways within the human brain. Evidently, Neurodiversity offers numerous advantages, such as excelling in areas of pattern recognition, attention to detail, and analytical thinking. These benefits lead to a more inclusive and accepting workplace.
Since neurodiversity provides numerous advantages, this concludes that a person can excel in areas of pattern recognition, attention to detail and analytical thinking. This kind of benefit also leads to a more inclusive and accepting workplace.
What is The Neurodiversity Movement?
In recent years, neurodiversity has expanded. Nevertheless, it has led to a movement that seeks to change how society views individuals. It does not involve a leader, or a single group, or organization.
Similar to most civil rights movements, the Neurodiversity Movement is formed by various individuals. The movement attempts to change insights, eliminate negative stereotypes with a balanced understanding of strengths and needs, and search for valuable roles. In addition, the movement establishes that embracing neuro minorities is essentially very beneficial to society.
The Benefits of Neurodiversity
Each individual is exceptional in their own characteristics and needs. What is more essential is that for an Autistic individual, neurodiversity provides a means of self-acceptance, and the ability to communicate their needs. With a unique view on neurodiversity, it opens up a new approach to how individuals’ experiences are revealed. This is referred to as the neurodiversity spectrum. The spectrum suggests that an Autistic individual becomes an identity label instead of a disability. It promotes a safe environment for communication, flexibility, and compromise.
Embracing Neurodiversity in the Workplace
In the United States, companies, including Microsoft, SAP, and JPMorgan Chase, are recognizing the benefits of hiring neurodiversity employees. Despite this, according to Deloitte; “as compared to 4.2% of the overall population, 85% of people with Autism are unemployed.”[1] Under these circumstances, Harvard Medical School implies that employers can make a neurodiverse-friendly workplace by exercising clear communication, advising workplace etiquette, offer an early notice of changes with reasons by understanding the individual’s preferences and needs, being kind and patient.
[1] Emily Lees, “Neurodivergent-Affirming Report Writing,” Divergent Perspectives, August 28, 2022. https://www.divergentperspectives.co.uk/post/neurodivergent-affirming-report-writing-2.
The Individuality of Neurodivergence
From Very Well Mind, Ariane Resnick, CNC, “there is no single answer to what it’s like to be neurodivergent.[1] Resnick states that there is not a single answer to what it is like. This is because every individual is unique in their own way. She brings up a good point that neurodivergence does not feel the same for everyone. This may be due to the differences in social preferences, how we learn, communicate and become familiar with the environment.
[1] Ariane Resnick, “What Is Neurodivergence, and What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?,” Verywell Mind, November 23, 2023. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-neurodivergence-and-what-does-it-mean-to-be-neurodivergent-5196627#toc-what-is-it-like-to-be-neurodivergent.
To conclude, accepting neurodiversity enhances society by recognizing the individual’s strengths and encouraging inclusion. It also enhances our understanding of how people interact with the world. So, when we recognize the diverse potential within neurodiversity, this heightens acceptance, support, and an innovative community.
Bibliography
Lees, Emily. “Neurodivergent-Affirming Report Writing.” Divergent Perspectives. August 28, 2022. https://www.divergentperspectives.co.uk/post/neurodivergent-affirming-report-writing-2.
McCain, Kelly. “Explainer: What Is Neurodivergence? Here’s What You Need to Know.” World Economic Forum, October 10, 2022. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/10/explainer-neurodivergence-mental-health/.
Resnick, Ariane. “What Is Neurodivergence and What Does It Mean to Be Neurodivergent?” Verywell Mind, November 23, 2023. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-neurodivergence-and-what-does-it-mean-to-be-neurodivergent-5196627#toc-what-is-it-like-to-be-neurodivergent.
Spectrum-aba.com. “For Caregivers” ABA Therapy. 2021. https://www.spectrum-aba.com/for-caregivers.
