neurodiversity (noun)
[noor-oh-di-vur-si-tee, -dahy-, nyoor-]
The variation and differences in neurological structure and function that exist among human beings, especially when viewed as being normal and natural rather than pathological.
- Dictionary.com
Neurodiversity recognizes that every person’s brain works uniquely. A common misconception is that this word only refers to individuals with labels like autism, dyslexia, or ADHD. The truth is that we are all a part of neurodiversity. Neurodiversity recognizes that brains are wired in many different ways—and that these differences are part of normal human diversity, not flaws or problems to be “fixed.” Just as we all have different personalities, talents, and interests, we also have different ways of thinking, learning, and experiencing the world.
A Sampling of Neurotypes
While there are many, the graphic above offers a sampling of different neurotypes. Some of these neurotypes may surprise you, like being left-handed, for example. If you were left-handed and attended school in the mid-1950s, you most likely would have been forced to use your right hand. At that time, we understood left-handedness to be a problem that required correction. Now we know that left-handedness is a neurodistinction, a neurological difference related to brain development and structure. In most of the world, being left-handed is now accepted. We are fortunate to have left-handed individuals with gifts as divergent thinkers, excelling in fields like art, architecture, aeronautics, music, and mathematics. As we are curious about and embrace differing neurotypes, we create rich, engaging cultures that celebrate and value all kinds of thinking.