Over the last several decades, many new terms have emerged in the disability, autism, and neurodiverse communities to describe the way some brains work differently than others. So, what words should you use? Well, the short answer is – just ask! But, if you’d like to learn the nuances and differences between the terms, read more below!
Neuro-what? Words
Neurodiversity is the umbrella term coined in the 90s by sociologist Judy Singer. Neurodiversity is the concept that people have different brain functions and that is normal, rather than identifying people with differently functioning brains as abnormal. It treats the differences in a neutral manner and not as “good” or “bad.”
Neurodivergence is the term for people whose brain functions differently than what is considered typical patterns. Similarly, Neurotypical is the descriptor that refers to someone whose brain functions are considered standard or typical.
These three terms are the general descriptors to be used when describing brain differences and the easiest umbrella terms to use when you are not sure!
Types of Neurodivergence
Neurodivergence encompasses a range of brain function abnormalities. It could mean someone is on the autism spectrum, has ADHD, dyslexia or even chronic mental health difficulties including bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, and depression. But for today, we will go over the types of neurodiversity we most hear about here at Woodhaven!
Autism
Autism is often referred to as a “spectrum disorder” because there are variations in the cases from mild to severe. Previously, the community used subtypes of autism such as “Asperger’s” and “Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD).” However, the umbrella term of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is more commonly used today, and is terminology used for diagnosis in the DSM-V. Individuals with ASD could have any number of conditions that include difficulty with socializing, repetitive behaviors or speech impediments. Autistic people often have amazing attention to detail, strong focus, and excel at visual learning.
ADHD
ADHD, or Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is considered an executive function dysregulation disorder. Basically, that individual may have trouble with managing their attention, behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. People with ADHD often have difficulty with focus and organization. However, their out of the box thinking makes them great problem solvers and they may bring energy to your team!
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is an Autism Spectrum Disorder that involves speaking, writing, and reading. Most common issues are misreading, trouble spelling, speaking words or letters out of order and other difficulty with language pronunciation. People with dyslexia are known for being big picture thinkers, creatives, and learning with visual processing.
Learn More About Supporting Neurodivergent People
There are many ways to support the neurodivergent person in your life!
- Talk to them about their neurodivergent experience! Ask them how they best process things.
- Support neurodiverse job applicants and employer programs! Read more about this in our blog.
- Advocate for disability and neurodivergent rights! You can find a list of advocacy resources on our website.
You might be surprised how many people identify as neurodivergent in your life!