The neurodiversity movement

 

In today's world being 'neurodivergent' is something very different to how it was in the past.  Firstly there is the term 'neurodivergent' and the fact that this exists is something to be welcomed!  Sure, having the diagnosis may be a worry or long term concern but on the other hand it can be a source of relief and offer access to new resources and support with self acceptance.

It is hard to believe that 80% of people with A.D.H.D. are not diagnosed.  A.D.H.D. is one of the conditions that fall under the category of 'neurodivergence'.  Therefore nothing is clear cut and sorted within this domain and it can take a certain courage to step forward and ask questions about your experience and symptoms.

Another condition which also forms part of the umbrella term of neurodivergence is dyslexia and in fact it is the most common one affecting around 10% of adults.

So neurodivergence describes all conditions which influence sensory processing, motor abilities, social comfort, cognition and focus.  Some other conditions included are autism and asperger's, generally referred to as being A.S.D. (autism spectrum disorder)

There has been a huge shift in perspectives when it comes to labels and responses to neurodiversity.  At one time the emphasis would be on what the person cannot do, achieve or succeed at, however with increased understanding and shifts in language we are now at a stage where the boundaries are blurred between neurotypical and neurodivergent.  Neurotypical being the majority of people (not being neurodivergent).

Older terminology is fading with less use of words like 'normal', 'hyper' and 'challenging behaviour'.  We are being guided towards terminology such as 'strengths' and 'progress' with regards to describing people.

This is the right path as regardless of labels and diagnostics we are all individuals with our own unique personalities.  People who are neurodivergent today may be more forthcoming about discussing their needs and describing the way that their brain functions.

Many avenues have opened with understanding and inclusion being key.  Also it has been noted that many celebrities have spoken about their own experiences with being neurodivergent; Steve Jobs and Bill Gates for example.  When we see people achieving and living life to the full it is inspiring and provides a positive backdrop around this topic. 

The term was first put on the table in 1998 and one of the researchers is Judy Singer, an Austrian psychologist, who acknowledged the uniqueness of people's brains.  Fast forward a bit and now this recognition, although a non medical term is becoming part of daily vocabulary supporting children and adults through the stages of being tested and potentially diagnosed. 

It has been somewhat controversial over the years getting the point across that there is no pathology.  Some researchers were thought to be over ready to mention 'deficits'. Another area of some contention is the source of the onset with some emphasising social factors as a causation such as 'societal barriers'.

Perhaps barriers do not help with the situation but hopefully progress will continue and debate can carry ideas and matters forward in a positive way which sparks discussion and solutions.