Definition
Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and others, are natural variations in the human genome rather than disorders to be corrected. The term is often attributed to sociologist Judy Singer, though autistic scholars have shown the idea was developed collectively by neurodivergent people.
Why It Matters
A 2024 letter in the journal Autism traced the concept to multiple origins, including earlier uses of the phrase neurological diversity. The neurodiversity framework shapes how society, medicine, and education approach neurological differences. A neurodiversity lens emphasizes accommodation and acceptance rather than cure and normalization.
Common Misconception
Neurodiversity does not mean autistic people do not struggle or do not need support. It means their struggles are partly caused by mismatch with neurotypical environments, and that those environments should adapt too.