Definitions
Neurodiversity is a growing concept started by the autistic community1 that acknowledges the natural differences in how individuals process and experience the world. The neurodiversity movement highlights that no two brains function the same, normalizing variations in neurology and psychology.2
Within the neurodiversity framework, there are two subclassifications: neurotypical and neurodivergent.3
Neurotypical refers to someone whose neurological experience falls within the average range of variability. It’s important to note that what constitutes “normal” brain functioning is subjective and influenced by societal and cultural expectations.
Neurodivergent describes individuals who have a neurological condition or variation that significantly affects how they behave, process information, or experience the world. Neurodivergence may or may not pertain to a diagnosable condition or disability.
Why is the terminology important?
Some individuals who are not comfortable disclosing their conditions may choose to primarily identify as neurodivergent to express their need for accommodation and understanding while maintaining their privacy.
Additionally, it is common for there to be co-occurring conditions wherein a person may identify as neurodivergent to encompass multiple impacting traits.2
Examples of neurodivergence
A neurodivergent brain may demonstrate differences in functioning that impact the following:
- Attention span
- Short term and long term memory
- Sensory processing
- Planning and organizing
- Emotional regulation
- Cognitive flexibility
- Creativity
- Problem solving
- Pattern recognition
- Motivation
Embracing neurodiversity
When society is designed to support only one way of being, people are left behind. This exclusion can hinder social connection, limit access to basic needs, and negatively impact mental and physical well-being, as well as career stability and success.
Embracing neurodiversity starts with awareness and acceptance.
- Awareness requires actively listening to different perspectives and seeking educational experiences. This includes:
- Listening to neurodivergent experiences
- Reading about topics related to neurodiversity
- Asking questions to understand neurodivergence
- Acceptance means respecting neurodiverse needs, voices, and experiences. This includes:
- Developing relationships with neurodivergent people
- Supporting appropriate boundaries and self-advocacy
- Including neurodivergent voices in decision-making
- Adapting the environment to meet neurodiverse needs
Just like the variations in our physical bodies, neurodiversity is a fundamental aspect of what makes life beautiful. Embracing neurodiversity allows each person to be unique and enhances our ability to love others for their individuality, as well as the connections we share.
Note on disability
It’s also important to acknowledge that acceptance of neurodiversity does not lessen the significance of any disability. Disabled individuals may face severe challenges in a world that is not, or cannot be, adapted to accommodate their condition. Emphasizing understanding, inclusion, and appropriate support is vital for enabling those with disabilities to engage safely in day to day life.
References
- Monique Botha, Robert Chapman, Morénike Giwa Onaiwu, Steven K. Kapp, Abs Stannard Ashley, and Nick Walker, “The neurodiversity concept was developed collectively: An overdue correction on the origins of neurodiversity theory,” Autism 28, no. 6 (2024): 1591-1594. https://doi.org/10.1177/13623613241237871
- “Neurodiversity,” National Library of Medicine, accessed December 8th, 2025. https://www.nnlm.gov/reading-club/topic/331
- “Neurodivergent,” Cleveland Clinic, accessed December 8th, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/23154-neurodivergent
The Point of Divergence 