Ever considered that the spectrum of human brain functions and neurocognitive abilities is as diverse as the colors in a rainbow?
This is the heart of 'neurodiversity', a concept that rejoices in the diversity of our brain functions and development. Just like our distinct fingerprints, our brain and nervous system perceive, process, and utilize information in unique ways - a testament to the diversity and uniqueness of human cognition.
Neurodiversity is not about deficiencies or disorders. It is about recognizing autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodevelopmental conditions as natural variations of the human experience, worthy of respect and value. It's a call to shift away from the traditional medical models that pathologize these conditions, towards a more inclusive approach that champions diverse modes of thinking and learning.
In recent years, the term 'Neurodiversity' has emerged as a popular topic in the business world. As corporations recognize and appreciate the unique strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to their teams, we witness a transformative shift in the workplace culture.
Imagine the world as a tapestry. Each thread contributes to the overall picture, right? Similarly, neurodiversity adds richness to the human experience. It's a celebration of our unique cognitive abilities, and a reminder that neurological diversity is a gift that benefits us all.
Here are significant terms associated with neurodiversity, each offering a unique perspective on the diverse ways in which human brains operate.
Neurodiverse refers to the diversity within the range of all possible brain types, where none can be deemed 'normal' and each is simply distinct.
Neurodiversity movement is a social justice initiative that advocates for civil rights, equality, respect, and complete inclusion of neurodivergent individuals in society.
Neurodiversity Paradigm is the perspective that neurological differences are to be recognized and respected as any other human variation.
Neurotypical refers to an individual who does not have a diagnosed neurodivergent condition and does not identify as neurodivergent. Neurotypical is essentially the counterpart to neurodivergent.
Neurodivergent refers to individuals whose neurological development and functioning diverge from societal norms. This variation can be genetic, the outcome of a brain-altering experience, or a blend of both factors.
Neurodivergence: This term broadly refers to the various expressions of neurodivergent thinking within a neurodiverse society. It is the "state of being neurodivergent."
Applied Neurodiversity involves conditions present at birth which are more likely associated with gross motor control and learning difficulties. For example, challenges related to calculations and reading
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
Dyscalculia
Dysgraphia
Clinical neurodiversity refers to the congenital neurological differences that are considered health conditions. This category of neurodiversity is related to difficulties in communication skills, social skills, behavior, and impulse control
ADHD
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Tourette Syndrome
Intellectual disability
Acquired neurodiversity involves neurological differences that develop as a part of a health condition or injury. They can be resolved once an illness or injury heals, or the state can worsen as the condition deteriorates
Acquired or traumatic Brain Injury (ABI) like stroke or encephalitis
Illnesses that cause changes in cognition and behaviour as a direct result of the illness or through treatment of the illness like Parkinson’s disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, and certain cancer treatments
Mental ill health conditions such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety and depression
Medical Model views neurodivergence as deficits or impairments, advocating for correction through medical interventions, regardless of pain or illness. It emphasizes identifying what is 'wrong' rather than what the individual needs.
Social Model serves as the foundation for the concept of neurodiversity, focusing on how we can support neurodivergents within society. It identifies systemic barriers and societal attitudes that contribute to exclusion. While variations in physical, sensory, intellectual, or psychological traits may lead to functional limitations, they only result in disability if society fails to recognize, include, and accommodate these individuals.
Self-stimulation or stimming are repetitive movements or noises that are common in neurodivergent individuals as a way to self-soothe or express excitement (ex. rocking back and forth, skipping, making repetitive noises, flapping hands, spinning, or vocalizing.)
Accommodations: Adjustments or modifications provided to support neurodivergent individuals in various settings.
Executive Functioning is a set of cognitive processes that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control.
Camouflaging/masking is the process by which neurodivergents conceal their differences to fit in with neurotypical peers.
Co-occuring difference is the term used when describing someone who may have a diagnosis and experience other differences alongside the diagnosis.
Strengths-Based Approach focuses on the inherent strengths and abilities of neurodivergent individuals rather than just their challenges.
As we explore these terms, we are reminded of the vast spectrum of human experience. Advocating for and embracing neurodiversity not only empower individuals, it also enriches our collective understanding of what it means to be in “Kapwa”, a Filipino core value that acknowledges our shared humanity.
Want to go deeper?
Join us for Wired Differently: Creating a Team Culture Where All Minds Can Thrive, an interactive online course led by Lana Jelenjev, co-founder of the Neurodiversity Foundation and Neurodiversity Education Academy. In this course, we'll explore how to build a team culture that embraces and affirms all neurotypes. Over the course of four 90-minute sessions, we will dive into best practices for neuroinclusion, sharing insights and strategies to support neurodivergent individuals in thriving at work.
Additional reading:
Comments