2 Introduction to Neurodiversity
Learning Objectives
- To understand the terms ‘neurodiversity’, ‘neurodivergence’ and ‘neurotypical’ and how to use them in day-to-day life.
- To understand definitions for some of the neurodivergent conditions that will be referenced in this book.
What do the terms neurodiverse, neurodivergent and neurotypical mean?
Work through the following interactive resource to develop your understanding of the above terms, and check your knowledge with some questions. You can enable full screen for the activity to make it easier to read.
Created by Teagan Menhenett, © Deakin University 2024, licensed under CC-BY-NC.
Copyright note: All images in the above activity are used under the Pixabay Content License.
Neurodivergent terms used throughout this resource:
Autism:
- A lifelong condition that “affects how a person thinks, feels, interacts with others, and experiences their environment” (Deakin University, 2023b).
- Autism can look like differences in communication, social interactions, sensory processing, and preferences for routines and structure (Deakin University, 2023b). However, every autistic person is different in their skill set, so it is important not to make assumptions.
- Learn more about myths associated with autism.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder:
- A condition that “affects your brain’s executive functioning, as well as your ability to self-regulate and control your thoughts, words, actions and emotions” (Deakin University 2023a).
- Also referred to as ‘ADHD’ or ‘Variable Attention Stimulus Trait’ (VAST) (Deakin University 2023a).
- Learn more about myths associated with ADHD.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder:
- A condition where people address obsessions (such as fear of contamination or germs, or the need for order) through compulsions (behaviors such as washing, checking, cleaning, counting, ordering and arranging) (Moulding, n.d).
- Also referred to as ‘OCD’.
- Learn more about OCD.
Dyslexia:
- Dyslexia is a “language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading.” (The University of Melbourne, n.d).
- Learn more information about some misconceptions associated with dyslexia
When using the above terms, consider your language. As our society becomes more aware and accepting of neurodiversity, the language we use is beginning to positively frame these differences. The next chapter will provide a starting point for you to reflect on appropriate language.
Key Takeaways
- Neurodiversity refers to the entire population, neurotypical refers to those within the population who have a ‘typical’ way of thinking, and ‘neurodivergent’ refers to those with a different way of thinking.
These are some of the words you may have come across in this chapter:
ADHD, Autism, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Dsylexia, Neurodivergence, Neurodiversity, Neurotypical.
A mental health disorder that affects your brain’s executive functioning, as well as your ability to self-regulate and control your thoughts, words, actions and emotions. Also referred to as ‘ADHD’ or ‘Variable Attention Stimulus Trait’ (VAST)
A condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, interacts with others, and experiences their environment. Also referred to as ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder’ (ASD).
A condition where people address obsessions (such as fear of contamination or germs, or the need for order and symmetry) through compulsions (such as washing, checking, cleaning, counting, ordering and arranging). Also referred to as ‘OCD’.
Dyslexia is a language-based learning disability. Dyslexia refers to a cluster of symptoms, which result in people having difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading.
When an individual's brain diverges or differs from what the society considers typical or ‘normal’.
Is defined as “the diversity of human minds”: the variation of functioning within our society; when multiple neurocognitive styles are represented in a group.
Individuals whose neurocognitive functioning falls within the typical or ‘normal’ societal standards. Neurotypical is the opposite of neurodivergent.
