Infinity - The Network for Neurodivergent Public Servants / Infinité - Le Réseau des fonctionnaires neurodivergents/What is neurodiversity?

Introduction

We hear a lot about the term "neurodiversity" these days, but we may only have a passing understanding of it.

This resource seeks to explain key terms, concepts, and definitions that relate to neurodiversity.

Key terms

• Neurodevelopmental condition or difference: A condition or difference affecting the development of the nervous system, leading to abnormal brain function that in turn may affect emotion, learning ability, self-control, and memory.
• Neurodivergent: a term to describe people whose neurological function differs from what is considered typical, including but not limited to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), Tourette’s syndrome, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, and Down syndrome.
• Neurodiversity: a concept where neurological differences are to be recognized and respected as any other human variation.
• Neurodiverse: a term to describe a group containing both neurotypical and neurodivergent people.
• Neurotypical:  a term to describe people whose neurological function is considered to be 'normal'

Neurodiversity

A concept where neurological differences are to be recognized and respected as any other human variation. National Symposium on Neurodiversity (2011)

The concept of neurodiversity was coined in the 1990s by autistic sociologist Judy Singer, challenging the medical model through which neurodevelopmental conditions have been viewed.   Neurodiversity frames brain differences in neurodivergent people as more than simply a disability, but a difference worthy of acknowledgement and respect.

Neurodiversity does not deny that neurodivergent people may experience challenges in their lived experience but seeks foremost to celebrate the extraordinary talents and abilities that neurodivergent people have.

Who is neurodivergent?

Someone is considered to be neurodivergent if they have a neurodevelopmental condition or difference, which affect how the nervous system develops, which in turn, shapes a person's emotion, learning ability, self-control, motor skills, and memory.  

This includes:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Communication disorders
• Down syndrome
• Epilepsy
• Learning disorders (e.g., dyscalculia, dysgraphia, dyslexia)
• Motor disorders (e.g., dyspraxia, Tourette's syndrome)

The above list is not exhaustive and includes other conditions and differences not explicitly mentioned above.

What do neurodivergent people need?

The lived experience of being neurodivergent varies from person to person.  There's a saying that when you've met one neurodivergent person, you've met one neurodivergent person.  While the talents, skills, and experiences can differ, there are some common areas of need, which can include:

• Grasping non-verbal communication
• Making and keeping relationships (e.g. friends, co-workers)
• Managing changes to routine
• Planning and organization
• Time management
• Differences in sensory processing (e.g. lighting, sound, crowds)
• Communication differences (e.g. difficulty with reading, math)