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AUTISM GLOSSARY
Neurodiversity
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 was coined by sociologist Judy Singer in 1997.
WHY IT MATTERS
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.