Can someone please tell me the difference between neurodiversity, neurodivergent and neurodivergence?
I’m convinced those burning questions you fear are ‘silly’ and keep to yourself are the metaphorical last chip at summer BBQs.
Everyone wants that chip yet pretends it’s not there, no one wants to see it go to waste yet we’re conditioned to let that last tasty morsel linger. I say no more - we’re all better off if someone takes the chip!
Good intentions can too easily get buried by fear of being shamed for getting something wrong. Language is powerful, assuming everyone is on top of evolving language could alienate, confuse and disengage folks in the process. Not on my watch!
I turned to the internet to dig deep on all the ways ChatGPT has been helping folks navigate new terminology quietly on the side. So, first of all, let’s talk about some key terms that are easy to mix up: neurodivergence, neurodivergent and neurodiversity.
Here’s a breakdown:
Neurodivergence
All the ways brains process information that aren’t the assumed ‘one-size-fits-all brain’ most systems and social norms were created for. It’s an umbrella term referring to neurological conditions such as autism, dyslexia, ADHD and more.
Neurodivergent
How to describe a person who’s brain processes information in a different way. It can also be used to refer to the community.
Neurotypical
The assumed ‘one-size-fits-all brain’ most systems and social norms were created for
Neurodiversity
The term for to talk about all brain types, both neurodivergent and neurotypical
Neurodiverse
How to describe something that includes groups of people whose brains work differently, both neurodivergent and neurotypical
Let’s look at some frequently asked questions:
“So if someone is autistic are they neurodiverse?”
Nope! Two reasons:
Neurodiverse describes something for both neurotypical and neurodivergent minds
One person can’t be described as diverse, diverse is difference in a group
“In that case, are they neurodivergent?”
Yes! Neurodivergent describes the individual or group
And a neurodivergent person is autistic?
Not necessarily! They may be dyslexic, have Tourette’s, ADHD or any other neurological difference. It could be autism, but neurodivergent isn’t a specific condition or difference.
Still a little confusing? Let’s use them in a sentence:
Click the dropdown to expand the example
-
Understanding neurodivergence can help identify support needs and empathise with your direct report
-
A neurodivergent colleague may shift their standard work hours to accommodate sleeping difficulties
-
Neurotypical standards in the workplace can be harmful for neurodivergent folks
-
Embracing neurodiversity enriches how we work as a team
-
Whether or not you know it, your workforce is neurodiverse
Hope that helps! 👋🏻
