Challenging the stigma of Neurodiversity

18th – 24th March marks Neurodiversity Celebration Week – a week that aims to bring about worldwide neurodiversity acceptance, equality and inclusion. This year we thought it would be helpful to explore where the term Neurodiversity comes from and what classes as a neurodiverse condition.

Where does the term ‘neurodiversity’ come from?

1. The term neurodiversity was originally coined for a human rights advocacy purpose by the Australian social researcher, Judy Singer in 1998. Judy herself identifies as autistic.
2. Judy recognised that a social movement was needed for individuals with neurodivergent conditions such as autism, ADHD and dyslexia due to the lack of understanding and support for individuals.
3. Judy argues that we’ve been conditioned to believe we have to teach and learn in certain ways. The neurodiversity movement acknowledges the importance of appreciating that people learn and think differently.
4. The concept of neurodiversity helps us to embrace equality, diversity, and inclusion. It is a way in which we can celebrate authenticity and difference.

What classes as a neurodivergent condition?

Being neurodivergent or in the neurominority means having a brain that works differently to that of a ‘neurotypical’ person. This may be a difference in social preferences, ways of learning, ways of communicating and/or ways of perceiving the environment. There are many different neurodivergent conditions, including:

• Autism
• ADHD
• Dyslexia
• Dyscalculia
• Sensory processing disorders
• Tourette syndrome

Neurodiversity Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. Let’s embrace the beautiful diversity of minds!