Understanding Neurodiversity: Unpacking the Terms Neurodivergent and Neurotypical

In recent years, the conversation around mental health and cognitive differences has started to open up more, with terms like "neurodiversity," "neurodivergent," and "neurotypical" becoming increasingly common.

These concepts help to promote understanding and inclusivity but what do they mean?

I will try and break down these terms to better grasp their significance.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a concept that recognises and celebrates the natural variation in human brains and minds. Coined in the late 1990s by sociologist Judy Singer, neurodiversity posits that neurological differences—like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others—are natural and should be respected as any other human variation, such as ethnicity or gender. This perspective challenges the notion that certain neurological conditions are inherently "deficits" or "disorders" that need to be cured. Instead, it promotes the idea that neurodiverse individuals offer unique strengths and perspectives that can be valuable to society.

Neurodivergent: Embracing Neurological Differences

The term "neurodivergent" (sometimes abbreviated as ND) refers to individuals whose neurological development and functioning diverge from what is considered typical. This can include a wide range of conditions, such as:

- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

- Dyslexia

- Dyspraxia

- Tourette Syndrome

- And many others

Neurodivergent individuals often experience the world differently, which can affect how they perceive, think, feel, learn, and interact with themselves, others and the world around them. Embracing neurodivergence involves recognising these differences not as deficits but as variations that contribute to the intricacy of human experience. For example, while someone with ADHD might struggle with attention regulation, they may also possess exceptional creativity and problem-solving skills.

Neurotypical: The Conventional Norm

The term "neurotypical" (sometimes abbreviated as NT) refers to individuals whose neurological development and functioning adhere to what society typically expects. Neurotypical individuals generally experience the world in ways that align with the dominant societal norms, which can make their cognitive patterns and behaviors more readily understood and accepted by the majority.

While the term neurotypical is often used to draw a distinction from neurodivergent, it is essential to note that being neurotypical does not mean being "better" or "superior." It simply indicates that a person's neurological traits align more closely with the conventional expectations. This alignment often affords neurotypical individuals certain privileges, as societal systems—such as educational frameworks, workplace norms, and social interactions—are typically designed with their cognitive styles in mind.

Why Understanding These Terms Matters

Understanding and correctly using the terms neurodiversity, neurodivergent, and neurotypical is crucial for several reasons:

1. Promotes Inclusivity: Recognising neurodiversity fosters an inclusive environment where everyone's cognitive differences are valued. This helps reduce stigma and discrimination against neurodivergent individuals.

2. Encourages Acceptance: By viewing neurological differences as natural variations rather than disorders, we can create a more accepting society that appreciates diverse ways of thinking and learning.

3. Supports Better Accommodations: Awareness of neurodiversity can lead to better accommodations in schools, workplaces, and public spaces, ensuring that neurodivergent individuals have the support they need to thrive.

4. Enhances Collaboration: Diverse cognitive perspectives can drive innovation and problem-solving. Embracing neurodiversity can lead to more creative and effective solutions in various fields.

Moving Forward

As we continue to explore and understand the complexities of the human brain, it is vital to adopt a more inclusive and respectful approach to neurological differences. Embracing neurodiversity not only benefits neurodivergent individuals but also enriches society as a whole by valuing the unique contributions that every person can make.

In conclusion

We are all unique and we all perceive, think, feel, learn and respond in different ways to our inner and outer experiences however some of these ways are considered ‘typical’ and some of these ways are not! Instead of judging the ‘non typical’ ways as deficits or disorders we should accept them for what they are - ‘normal variations of the human nervous system’ - and recognise the many positives of such diversity. Each human brain is unique and we need to move away from the prejudicial language of normal/abnormal.

This is why neurodiversity, neurodivergent, and neurotypical are more than just buzzwords—they represent a shift towards a more inclusive and understanding world. By learning about and respecting these concepts, we can help create a society that values and celebrates the full spectrum of human diversity.

As a therapist and coach I am a neuro-affirming therapist that affirms and supports neurodivergent differences.