Introduction:
Neurodiversity refers to natural variations in how our brains work, with each person having unique abilities and perspectives (Armstrong, 2021). This term was introduced in the 1990s by Judy Singer, a sociologist on the Autism spectrum who challenged the image that an Autistic person was disabled. The core principle of neurodiversity is to shift the focus from the challenges associated with these brain differences to the strengths they can offer.
In recent years, the neurodiversity movement has gained momentum, emphasising the understanding and appreciation that brain wiring differences are a normal part of human variation. This movement encourages the recognition of strengths that these differences bring to our community, challenging the notion of a ‘normal’ brain and advocating for a more inclusive society.
Understanding Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity encompasses diverse attention, learning, cognitive, and sensory differences (Walker, 2014). It encompasses a wide array of neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette’s syndrome, among others. It is now recognised as a natural variation in human beings, not a disorder or disease (Grandin, 2010; Silberman, 2015).
Key Concepts of Neurodiversity:
Neurodiversity, as a concept, asserts that all brains are wired differently, celebrating the variety within a group. An individual with a brain falling in a minority neurotype is described as neurodivergent. Embracing this diversity involves unlearning preconceived notions about neurology and acknowledging that the neurodivergent mind is not a failed neurotypical mind but a unique and valid way of being.
Damian Milton’s concept of “Double Empathy” highlights the challenges that arise when individuals with different views of the world interact. Simply put, the theory of the double empathy problem suggests that when people with very different experiences of the world interact with one another, they will struggle to empathise with each other. ie. Communication breakdowns that occur between autistic and non-autistic people are a two-way issue, caused by both parties’ difficulties in understanding – not a ‘one-way’ issue. It emphasises the need for mutual understanding and empathy, recognising that miscommunication can occur in cross-neurotype interactions.
Challenges Faced by Neurodiverse Individuals
Neurodivergent individuals often face stigma and discrimination in society. People tend to pathologise differences in neurological development instead of embracing them as natural variations of the human brain. Additionally, many neurodivergent individuals face challenges in accessing support and accommodations they need to thrive. This problem is compounded by a lack of public awareness and insufficient resources for diagnosis and intervention. To make matters worse, societal attitudes towards neurodiversity can result in exclusion from social groups, further affecting the well-being of neurodivergent individuals.
Communication barriers add further complexity, making it challenging to convey and receive information accurately. For instance, individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may find it challenging to focus on conversations leading to missed nuances within conversations. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may experience difficulty understanding nonverbal cues and sarcasm.
Additionally, sensory and processing issues can be overwhelming for neurodiverse individuals. Loud noises or bright lights may lead to sensory overload and make it difficult or even impossible to function. Processing information can also be challenging, leading to difficulties with tasks that require multitasking or sequencing information.
Mental health challenges may plague those with ADHD and ASD. Living in a world where they feel like they don’t quite fit in, may lead to feelings of alienation and depression.
Ultimately, it’s critical to recognise and embrace neurodiversity, so as to create inclusive environments that celebrate differences and provide necessary support. This is how we can build a more supportive and compassionate society where all individuals are accepted and can strive and succeed. Imagine how much healthier our society would be like if the majority could do this?
Neuroaffirmative Practices
Creating an affirming environment involves providing accommodations and support that respect the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. Some practices to consider include:
1. Accommodations: Create an environment that allows individuals to express their true selves by dispensing with the need for eye contact, offering bouncy chairs/stools, fidget toys, or allowing non-traditional communication methods like Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC). For example:
2. Strength-Based Approach: Recognise and build on individuals’ strengths, assisting them in identifying their distinctive qualities and preferences.
3. Respect Pronouns and Identity: Enquire about and adopt an individual’s chosen mode of self-reference, respecting identity-first language that emphasises their neurology.
4. Reflection and Connection: Recognising that the world may not always accommodate the neurodivergent mind and understanding that neurodivergence can manifest as a fluctuating disability influenced by the environment (sound, lighting, textures etc). By acknowledging and addressing these obstacles, we can strive to create a more inclusive society.
5. Supporting Neurokin Connections: Encourage neurodivergent individuals to connect with their neurokin—”people who share similar ways of thinking and doing things”. This sense of belonging is so important for mental health.
What to Avoid:
To promote an inclusive community, it is important to avoid certain practices, including:
- Social Skills Training: Instead of imposing neurotypical social skills, facilitate communication by understanding and respecting the social skills within neurokin groups – in order to avoid viewing the neurodivergent individual as having a deficiency.
- Burden of Change: Conduct psychoeducation to adapt the environment to fit the individual rather than placing the burden of change on the neurodivergent person.
- Labelling Neurology as Disorders: Refrain from using stigmatising language like disorders. Opt for terms like autism rather than ASD.
- Inappropriate Symbols: Avoid using symbols like the puzzle piece or endorsing campaigns like “Light it Up Blue.” Opt for the rainbow infinity symbol and movements like Light it up Gold or Red Instead.
- Neurotypical Strategies: Recognise that strategies for neurotypicals may not be effective for neurodivergent individuals, and tailor approaches to their unique needs.
Facilitating Change:
To support individuals in their journey towards improved mental health and quality of life, it is important to:
- Enable individuals to assert control over their lives and make choices in line with their values and goals, diverging from expectations typically set by neurotypical standards.
- Offer possible strategies to navigate difficult situations based on their unique needs and preferences.
- Engage with individuals’ surroundings, including colleagues, teachers, parents, and others, to comprehend and meet their needs collaboratively. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for neurodivergent individuals.
Conclusion:
If you are going to forge an inclusive community through neuroaffirmative practices; embracing diversity, challenging preconceptions, and actively supporting neurodivergent individuals will all be required. Every individual plays a vital role: educate yourself and others, champion supportive policies, and actively seek diverse perspectives. Through fostering understanding, empathy, and respect, we pave the way for a society that celebrates the inherent strengths of neurodiversity, enriching the well-being and flourishing of all its members. Together, we create a community where everyone thrives😊.
References:
1. Armstrong, T. (2021), Neurodiversity: Discovering the Extraordinary Gifts of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Brain Differences.
2.Grandin, T. (2010), Different… Not Less: Inspiring Stories of Achievement and Successful Employment from Adults with Autism.
3. Silberman, S. (2015), NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity.
4.Walker, J. (2014), Neurodiversity: Some Basic Terms & Definitions
5. Onwards and Upwards Psychology. (2023). Neurodiversity Affirming Practice
