The politically correct term for neurodivergent is “neurodivergence,” which is an umbrella term that encompasses a variety of conditions, including autism, dyslexia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and other cognitive or neurological conditions.
According to the Neurodiversity Institute, the term “neurodivergence” is meant to “[recognize] the diversity of the human brain and honor its unique strengths. ” This term acknowledges that these conditions are normal, as well as the often unique gifts and abilities associated with them.
Furthermore, it is preferred over more clinical or antiquated terms, such as “mental illness,” “retardation,” or “outsider,” which can be seen as pejorative.
Is neurodivergent an appropriate word?
Yes, neurodivergent is an appropriate and widely accepted term for people who experience the world differently due to neurological differences, such as autism and ADHD. Neurodivergent people may think, learn, and express themselves differently from the majority in ways that are not considered “typical” according to societal norms.
Some people may choose the term because it is less clinical and less stigmatizing than traditional medical labels. Neurodivergent people often have strengths that allow them to have unique perspectives that can be incredibly beneficial, yet they may have difficulty when attempting to adhere to traditional requirements, such as adhering to rigidly structured timetables or academic projects.
Neurodivergence is a normal and natural difference in people and should be embraced. The term is increasingly being used to help bring more awareness to neurodivergent people and their needs.
How do you refer to a neurodivergent person?
The respectful way of referring to a person who identifies as neurodivergent is to use “person-first language. ” This means that instead of referring to them as a “neurodivergent person”, they should be referred to as a “person with neurodivergence”.
This implies that their neurodivergence is only one part of their identity, and that they do not define themselves solely by their neurodivergence. It is also important to be conscious of the specific language used when referring to individuals, as different people may have different preferences.
Moreover, it is respectful to recognize and respect each individual’s identities, which may include various labels they use to describe their neurology, such as Autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, etc. Furthermore, using identity-first language when appropriate (i.
e. “Autistic person” instead of “person with Autism”) can be viewed as an act of celebration and recognition of the person’s identity, as it validates and normalizes the fact that their name is one that is not seen as “disabled” or “different” by society.
To conclude, when referring to a neurodivergent person always be respectful and mindful of their individual preferences.
Is neurodiversity a new term?
No, neurodiversity is not a new term. The concept of neurodiversity was first introduced in the late 1990s by Australian sociologist Judy Singer and British psychiatrist Quentin Summerfield. The term is used to refer to a variety of neurological and learning differences, including autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia, among others.
However, the acceptance of neurodiversity as a concept is relatively new and continues to evolve as a social movement.
Neurodiversity is an important concept that seeks to recognize and appreciate the unique perspectives, strengths, and differences of individuals who are neurologically diverse. Neurodiversity advocates have worked to promote the idea that, just like people with different races and genders, having different ways of thinking, processing and responding to the world should be accepted and respected.
Neurodivergents, a term coined to refer to those who are on the neurodiverse spectrum, have unique ways of seeing, understanding and managing the world, which can be huge assets to society.
Rather than pathologizing neurologically diverse individuals, neurodiversity aims to create inclusive communities where individuals of all neurological varieties are respected and supported. By embracing the concept of neurodiversity, we can ensure that those with diverse neurological needs can live fulfilling, successful lives.
What is a synonym for neuro divergent?
A synonym for neuro divergent is neurologically atypical. This phrase is used to describe those individuals whose neurological development and function differ significantly from the majority of the population.
Neuro divergent individuals may struggle with social situations or processing information and have difficulty establishing connections or making sense of the world. Neurologically atypical people may have different thought processes, be impacted by sensory overload or undersensitivity, or be diagnosed with a specific neurological disorder.
Is it OK to be neurodivergent?
Yes, it is perfectly okay to be neurodivergent. Neurodiversity is a term in which people with different neurological forms, such as autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, dyslexia, etc. are accepted and respected.
Neurodivergent individuals should not be seen as being “abnormal,” or “deficient,” as everyone’s brains are unique. Neurodivergent individuals have a lot to offer to society, as they often possess unique gifts or talents due to their individual ways of thinking.
Despite their differences, they are capable of achieving success in life, given the right amount of understanding and support. Neurodiverse individuals should be appreciated and celebrated for the richness they bring to the world.
Is a person neurodiverse or neurodivergent?
Neurodiversity and neurodivergence are terms used to describe different mindsets, experience and behaviours within the range of ‘normal’ human thinking. Neurodiversity is used to express the concept that people with different brain wiring and neurological conditions (e.
g. Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia) can be accepted and celebrated, and that those who are neurodiverse are entitled to the same chances and equitable treatment as all other members of society. Neurodivergence is the more specific term used to describe someone with an identifiable condition, such as Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia or another related disorder.
Neurodivergence is more commonly used by those who have been diagnosed with an identifiable condition, and is used to express the idea that they should be accepted, supported and celebrated as valuable members of society.
In summary, while neurodiversity is used to describe different types of neurological wiring and thinking in general, neurodivergence is used to describe someone with an identifiable condition. Both neurodiversity and neurodivergence recognise that neurological conditions are not abnormalities or disorders, but perfectly valid and accepted variations of the human experience.
What does Allistic mean?
Allistic is an adjective used to describe people who are not on the autism spectrum. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a lifelong developmental disability that affects the way an individual communicates, interacts, and learns.
Allistic describes people who do not have ASD, meaning they can learn, communicate, and interact without difference from the general population. Allistic people do not have special needs or challenges that require additional supports or lesson modifications.
Allistic is sometimes used interchangeably with the clinical term neurotypical.
Does anxiety count as neurodivergent?
Yes, anxiety can be considered a form of neurodivergence. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term that refers to any neurological or psychological divergences that may exist when compared to the majority of the population or the ‘neurotypical’ population.
It could include various different conditions such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, dyslexia, anxiety, depression, and Tourette Syndrome, among others. Anxiety may not be as well studied as other conditions, but it can still lead to impairments in functioning and be considered a form of neurodivergence.
Anxiety can manifest in physical, emotional, and behavioral ways, leading to symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, restlessness, panic, social avoidance, and even physical symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, and muscle tension.
Anxiety can be managed with treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and medication.
Is ADHD considered neurodiverse?
Yes, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is considered a form of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity is an umbrella term used to describe any form of neurological difference, such as ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dyslexia, and Tourettes Syndrome.
Neurodiversity is used to create a more inclusive understanding of neurological differences by emphasizing that these differences should be viewed as legitimate, valid, and valuable forms of diversity.
ADHD is a prevalent and highly heritable disorder that is estimated to affect 5-10% of school-aged children. It is characterized by difficulty in sustaining attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, as well as difficulty with executive functioning.
People with ADHD often experience difficulty with tasks such as remembering instructions, taking initiative, making decisions, organizing activities, and managing their emotions. ADHD is believed to arise from the interaction of multiple gene variants, in combination with environmental influences.
By recognizing ADHD, and indeed all forms of neurodiversity, as valid and valuable forms of diversity, we can break down the stigma and discrimination that is often associated with it. Critically, this also allows us to better support individuals affected by these conditions, helping them to lead fulfilled and successful lives.
When did neurodiversity become a word?
Neurodiversity as a word first entered mainstream discourse in 1998, when author and journalist Harvey Blume published an essay in Atlantic Monthly magazine titled “Neurodiversity”. In this essay, Blume argued that neurodiverse individuals—those with conditions such as autism and ADHD—should be seen as part of the natural human variation and should be embraced and supported accordingly.
Since then, the term has been further developed, with scholars proposing new interpretations and social movements for greater acceptance of neurodiversity emerging. The need for such a term was largely brought to light in the 1990s when the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual) was revised with new criteria for autism, resulting in a major increase in autism diagnoses.
This highlighted a need to look at neurological differences in a more integrated and inclusive way.
Who developed the term neurodiversity?
The term “neurodiversity” was coined in 1998 by Judy Singer, an Australian disability and LGBTI+ rights activist and self-advocate, to create an inclusive concept that describes the diversity of neurological conditions and differences.
In her own words, Singer was “drawing an analogy with other forms of diversity such as ethnicity, gender, sexuality and disability” in order to amplify the understanding of neurological diversity.
The term has been used to help people understand alternative forms of neurology, including those resulting from learning disabilities such as dyslexia, autism, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Neurodiversity encompasses an appreciation of the nature of all forms of human neurology, and a recognition that neurological differences are a normal and valuable form of human diversity. The concept promotes the idea of individuals with neurological differences having the right to self-identify and to advocate for their own neurology in their own voices and to be accepted, accommodated and celebrated without judgement.
The idea of neurodiversity has gained increasing support by individuals, professionals and organisations, as they have come to understand and appreciate the capabilities and unique gifts of individuals with a range of neurological conditions.
Neurodiversity has been used to create supportive environments that enable individuals with these differences to realise their full potential without stigma or discrimination.
What do you call people with neurodiversity?
People with neurodiversity can refer to themselves using a variety of terms, including neurologically or cognitively diverse, neurodivergent, neuroatypical, mad, or differently-abled. Each term is used by members of the neurodiversity movement to express their individual identity and the core belief that neurological conditions and mental health issues should be viewed and accepted as part of the human experience.
Neurodiversity is an emerging movement that recognizes and values neurological differences, such as ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and Tourette Syndrome, among others. Advocates of the neurodiversity movement share a common intention: to help create an inclusive, accessible world where everyone can feel a sense of belonging, no matter their neurological or cognitive differences.
What can I say instead of neurotypical?
One can use terms such as ‘non-neurodivergent’, ‘neurotypologies’, ‘neurotypical individuals’, or ‘individuals without neurodivergence’. Avoid using terms such as ‘normal’ or ‘typical’, as no neurodivergent person is ‘abnormal’ or ‘atypical’.
Neurodivergence is understandably not the same as mental health issues, disabilities, or developmental disorders, even though there may be overlap among these categories. Neurodivergence also reflects natural variations in the neurological makeup of humans and should be seen as part of individual diversity, not as a matter of right or wrong.
By using more inclusive language and avoiding labels, we can create an atmosphere that is supportive of people regardless of their neurological composition.
