Neurodiversity: A Misused Idea?

Neurodiversity means celebrating all brain differences, not just autism. It’s about inclusion, empowerment, and rejecting harmful labels.

The idea of neurodiversity started as a powerful movement, offering a new way to look at people with conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. Instead of seeing these as problems to fix, the movement argued that they are natural differences, just like variations in height or eye color. This gave many neurodivergent people a sense of pride and identity.

But as the concept of neurodiversity became more popular, its meaning started to change. Some companies, schools, and professionals began using the term in ways that went against its original purpose. This has caused confusion and harm, making it harder for the movement to achieve its goals. Let’s explore how this happened and what we can do to bring neurodiversity back to its roots.

Neurodiversity recognizes that different ways of thinking, learning, and processing the world are part of being human.

Clearing Up Common Misunderstandings

Before diving deeper, it’s important to clarify three terms that are often misunderstood or used interchangeably: neurodivergence, neurodiversity, and neurodivergent.

1. Neurodiversity: This term describes the natural diversity of human brains and minds. Just as biodiversity celebrates the variety of life forms in nature, neurodiversity recognizes that different ways of thinking, learning, and processing the world are part of being human.
2. Neurodivergence: This refers to an individual whose brain functions differently from what society considers “typical.” People who are autistic, have ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette’s, or other conditions are considered neurodivergent. However, neurodivergence does not only mean autism. The term covers a wide range of conditions and experiences.
3. Neurodivergent: This is the adjective used to describe a person or group whose cognitive functioning differs from the “norm.” For example, someone with dyslexia or someone who is autistic may identify as neurodivergent.

These distinctions are important because neurodivergence often gets equated with autism alone, leaving out others who also fall under the neurodivergent umbrella. Recognizing this broader spectrum helps ensure the movement is inclusive and reflects the true diversity of experiences.

From Empowerment to Marketing

In the beginning, the neurodiversity movement was led by neurodivergent people who wanted to fight against stereotypes. It was about showing the world that differences in the brain are not flaws but important parts of who we are. This idea was inspiring and gave hope to many.

Unfortunately, as neurodiversity became better known, it started to be used for other purposes. Some companies and professionals treat it as a trendy word to make themselves look good, without taking real action. For example, in workplaces, neurodiversity is often discussed in terms of productivity, focusing on how neurodivergent people can be more “useful” rather than how they can be supported to live fulfilling lives.

This shift reduces neurodiversity to a tool for systems like schools and businesses, instead of honoring it as a movement for acceptance and inclusion.

Some companies and professionals treat neurodiversity as a trendy word to make themselves look good, without taking real action.

The Problem with “Experts”

Another issue is how professionals, like doctors, teachers, and consultants, have taken over the conversation about neurodiversity. While they might have good intentions, they often focus more on their own ideas and less on the real experiences of neurodivergent people.

For example, some professionals talk about “high-functioning” versus “low-functioning” people. This creates a false divide, where those seen as “high-functioning” are praised, and others are dismissed as less valuable. But this doesn’t show the full picture. Someone who seems “high-functioning” might struggle with everyday tasks, while someone labeled “low-functioning” might have amazing strengths.

Another problem is separating neurodiversity from disability. Some people try to present neurodivergence as something positive only when it doesn’t involve struggles. But for many, identifying as disabled is an important part of who they are. It helps them understand the barriers they face and fight for their rights. Ignoring this erases their experiences and divides the community.

Taking Back Neurodiversity

To make sure the neurodiversity movement stays true to its purpose, neurodivergent people need to lead the way. Here are some steps we can take:

1. Listen to Neurodivergent Voices: The movement’s motto, “Nothing about us, without us,” should guide every decision that affects neurodivergent lives. Neurodivergent people must have the power to shape their own future, whether in schools, workplaces, or healthcare.
2. Fight Harmful Labels: Labels like “high-functioning” and “low-functioning” need to go. They oversimplify people’s experiences and create unfair hierarchies. We should focus on the individual, not on how well they fit into society’s expectations.
3. Create True Inclusion: Inclusion isn’t just about checking boxes or running diversity workshops. It means making real changes, like flexible work environments, supportive education systems, and accepting different ways of thinking and being.
4. Celebrate Neurodivergent Culture: Neurodivergent people should feel proud of who they are. This includes creating art, stories, and traditions that reflect their unique experiences. Sharing these with the world can help break stereotypes and show the true value of neurodiversity.

Moving Forward with Hope

Neurodiversity is not just a catchy word or a temporary trend; it’s a call to respect and celebrate the differences that make us human.

The neurodiversity movement has faced many challenges, but it remains a source of hope and strength. It has shown that society can grow and change to include everyone, not just those who fit into narrow definitions of “normal.”

For this to happen, professionals, parents, and allies need to support neurodivergent people without taking over the conversation. They should recognize that neurodivergent individuals are the real experts on their own lives.

Neurodiversity is not just a catchy word or a temporary trend. It’s a call to respect and celebrate the differences that make us human. By staying true to its original message and understanding its full meaning, we can build a future where everyone — no matter how their brain works — can live with dignity and pride.