You might have heard the term “neurodiversity” and wondered what it means. The word captures the full range of neurological variation in the human population: different neurological conditions, developmental differences, and learning styles. Neurodiversity advances the idea that these variations should be appreciated and acknowledged as a natural part of human diversity.
Neurodiversity is not a disease or disorder, but a different way of being. It includes people who are Autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, bipolar disorder, and many more.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences are a natural form of human variation. Rather than treating conditions like Autism, ADHD, or dyslexia as deficits to be fixed, the neurodiversity framework recognizes these as different ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world.
Recognized conditions associated with neurodiversity include:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- Intellectual disability (ID)
- Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)
- Down syndrome
- Dyslexia
- Epilepsy
- ADHD
- Tourette Syndrome
- And more
History of Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity as a concept is not new. The phrase was first used in the 1990s by sociologist Judy Singer, who is Autistic. Singer argued that Autistic brains simply function differently, helping to lay the groundwork for a more affirming way of understanding neurological variation.
Neurodiversity is first and foremost about social justice and inclusivity. Neurodiversity research and education are becoming increasingly significant in how clinicians and researchers understand neurological and developmental conditions.
Celebrating Neurodiversity
The neurodiversity movement celebrates and affirms each person’s reality, even when it differs from what society considers “normal”.
Neurodivergent people bring distinct strengths, creative problem-solving, and perspectives that enrich teams, communities, and ideas. This has also led employers to recognize the benefits of a neurodiverse workforce, much like other forms of diversity in the workplace.
Navigating a Neurotypical World
Many neurodivergent individuals navigate environments, systems, and social norms that were designed with neurotypical brains in mind. In classrooms and workplaces, this can create real challenges, and many neurodivergent people benefit from tailored support and accommodations.
Neurodivergence is often not visible, which can make it harder for others to understand someone’s experience. Many people also choose not to disclose their neurodivergent identity because of concerns about how they might be perceived, which underscores the importance of building genuinely inclusive environments.
What is ‘Neurotypical’?
The opposite of neurodivergence is the term neurotypical (NT). Being “neurologically typical” refers to falling within the average range for human neurology.
The term was first used in the Autistic community to refer to non-autistic people. It highlights that “typical” brain development is one way of being, not a universal standard. Those with different neurological development are referred to as “neurodivergent.”
Inclusivity and Language
Advocates for neurodiversity promote inclusive language. While many disability advocates favour identity-first language, such as “an Autistic person,” others favour person-first language, such as “a person with autism” or “a person with Down syndrome.” It is courteous to ask about someone’s preferred language and how they’d like to be addressed. Clinicians should be aware of neurodiversity and strive to use language that respects the mental and physical health of those with neurodevelopmental differences.
Neurodiversity and Autism
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with differences in the way a person communicates, behaves, and learns.
Every Autistic person has a unique profile of communication styles, strengths, and support needs. Communication approaches vary widely, from spoken language to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Many Autistic people navigate expressing their feelings and needs in their own ways, and some benefit from support in specific areas of daily life.
For many Autistic people, being Autistic is not itself a source of suffering. Challenges often arise from society’s treatment of neurodivergent individuals, leading to fewer opportunities in work, life, and relationships.
In British Columbia, a formal Autism diagnosis enables access to social and therapeutic services, including RASP-funded support for children aged 0 to 6. A diagnosis can facilitate connections throughout the community and help individuals and families better understand their differences. Tailored goals are key, as every person has unique needs, interests, and strengths. Learn how Arbutus Speech Therapy supports Autistic children and adults in Vancouver.
Executive function skills, such as planning, attention, and flexible thinking, are one area where many Autistic children benefit from speech-language pathology support. Learn more about how SLP supports executive function in Autistic children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions about neurodiversity and speech therapy?
At Arbutus Speech Therapy, our SLPs support neurodivergent children and adults across Vancouver and BC. We believe in building on each person’s strengths while working toward their individual goals.
Book a free phone consultation