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Neurodiversity, what is it and why is it important
- Karlie Plowman
- Mar 20, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 7
Among children, diagnoses such as Autism, ADHD and Dyslexia are becoming more and more prevalent. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one in 54 kids are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. This represents a large proportion of the population who often feel ‘abnormal’ within society.
Neurodiversity, What is it?
Neurodiversity is a concept that recognises neurological variations within the human brain are an indisputable feature of the human population. This seeks to reframe neurological differences as being healthy variations, ultimately aiming to eliminate the stigma associated with these diagnoses.
A neurodiverse approach has these fundamental principles:
Neurodiversity is a natural variation within the human genome.
The idea of a ‘normal’ brain or mind is a culturally constructed concept entrenched in society rather than the individual.
Recognises the need for facilitation of human diversity by providing adequate support systems to neurodivergent individuals.
What is Neurodivergent?
A neurodivergent refers to a person whose brain functions differently from the majority. This includes a number of neurological conditions including; Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dyspraxia and Dyslexia.
Why being neurodiverse is important!
Understanding that being neurodiverse is not ‘abnormal’ but simply a healthy variation within the human brain is beneficial to both parents and child. Being neurodiverse can de-stigmatise different types of brain functionality, encouraging children to celebrate their differences, rather than fear it. Providing a positive framework for children allows them to think about their neurodiversity in a positive way, resulting in improved self-esteem, confidence and resilience.
References
It's becoming more common for people to realize their brains might process information and experience the world differently, which falls under the umbrella of neurodiversity. If you're curious about whether your own traits align with common neurodivergent profiles like autism or ADHD, taking a general Neurodivergent Test online can be an interesting starting point for exploration. These tests often cover a range of characteristics related to sensory processing, social interaction, attention, and executive function. It's not a diagnostic tool for any specific condition, but it can help you identify patterns and decide if you want to explore specific assessments with a professional. It’s about understanding your unique cognitive style.
Understanding neurodiversity is about recognizing that neurological differences are a natural part of human variation. If you're wondering whether your own way of thinking, learning, or interacting might be considered neurodivergent, a free Neurodivergent Test can offer some initial insights. These online tools often touch upon aspects of autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other conditions that fall under the neurodiversity spectrum. While not a substitute for professional evaluation, such a test can help you identify areas where your experiences differ from the neurotypical norm and provide a basis for further self-exploration or discussion with a healthcare provider. It’s a step towards self-acceptance and understanding.