What is Neurodiversity?
The origin of the term “neurodiversity” is contended. It is commonly attributed to Judy Singer, whom many thought had coined the term in 1997. However, the validity of that belief has recently been challenged by a few other autistic academics.
Nevertheless, the claims made by the two parties affirmed one idea: neurodiversity is a concept that has been around for decades. And thanks to the rapid growth of autism awareness, the notion of neurodiversity has seen more recognition than ever.
Fundamentally, neurodiversity is an observation of objective differences in brain structure and function. Contemporary science has shown that every brain, even that of identical twins, is unique in its own right. Everyone, neurotypical or neuroatypical, is an active participant in the all-encompassing frame of neurodiversity.
That being said, the term “neurodiversity” does appear more frequently in discussions pertaining to certain fields. According to Harvard Health Publishing, neurodiversity is most often used when talking about autism, ADHD and other developmental learning conditions.
What is Neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence and neurodiversity, despite their similarity in spelling, are not the same. Neurodivergence is specifically used as a blanket term to describe those whose brain develops differently than most others. Simply put, society is a proving ground for neurodiversity, but not everyone in society is neurodivergent.
Breaking up the word “neurodivergence” would give us a clearer picture. “Neuro” is easy enough to understand, but what about “divergence”? Divergence refers to the branching development of a larger body, like a path splitting into two.
But not everyone is comfortable with this particular term — some argue that “neurodivergence” connotes shame and inferiority.
We all know that a path is viable as long as it leads the individual to the destination. In that sense, no road is inferior to another. In reality, however, people tend to associate the “divergent” path with danger and other negative qualities, all because of its deviation from the norm, the initial main passageway.
Therefore, some believe that it is defeating and demeaning to understand neurodiverse conditions through the lens of “neurodivergence”. As a study in 2021 put it, neurodivergence can be seen as a term of exclusion. More specifically, it is understood as a continuation of a subjective norm that is invented by a predominantly neurotypical society.
Neurodiversity or Neurodivergence?
And here is the million-dollar question: should we use the term “neurodivergent” or should we just stick to the concept of “neurodiversity”?
The answer is rather simple: just ask.
Refusing to stay silent or oblivious is a tried-and-true method of communicating respect. Most can agree that the best way to avoid misgendering someone is to first ask them for their pronouns. Similarly, the best way to avoid being offensive against the autistic individual you are conversing with is to ask them for their preference.
Neurodiversity has taught us that no two brains are the same. The autistic community stands united, but at the same time, it beams with individuality. And that individuality calls for the absence of unnecessary assumptions.
Autism Resources
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