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Theoretical Framework

The neurodiversity paradigm is grounded in several psychological frameworks. These theories emphasize the inherent potential and value of all individuals, regardless of neurological differences. They focus on empowerment and value the diversive perspectives to society, aligning the core tenets of the neurodiversity paradigm.

Neurodiversity Affirming Framework

At the core of the neurodiversity-affirming framework is the fundamental recognition that neurological differences are a natural part of human variation. Rather than viewing neurological divergences as disorders or deficits, this framework celebrates them as valuable expressions of the diverse ways the human brain can function.

The neurodiversity-affirming approach directly challenges the pathologizing medical model that has traditionally dominated societal attitudes towards neurological differences like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others. Instead, it reframes these variations as integral components of the rich tapestry of human neurocognitive diversity.

By validating neurodiversity as a natural and positive aspect of the human experience, the neurodiversity-affirming framework provides crucial support in several key ways:

Acceptance and Validation: The framework promotes the validation of neurodivergent individuals, affirming their inherent worth and the legitimacy of their neurological differences. This helps combat stigma, discrimination, and the harmful notion that neurodivergence is a defect to be “fixed”.

Strengths-Based Approach: The neurodiversity-affirming model focuses on identifying and cultivating the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives that neurodivergent individuals possess. This empowers them to see their differences as assets rather than burdens.

Accommodations and Support: The framework emphasizes the importance of creating accessible and inequitable environments that provide appropriate accommodations and support to enable neurodivergent individuals to thrive. This includes modifying sensory stimuli, communication methods, and other aspects of the environment.

Self - Determination and Agency: Neurodiversity-affirming practices actively involve neurodivergent individuals in decisions that affect their lives, recognizing them as the experts on their own experiences, strengths and, and needs.

Community Building: The neurodiversity-affirming approach has a profound positive impact on society as a whole as it cultivates communities that unlock the unique talents and perspectives of neurodivergent individuals. By valuing neurological diversity, we all gain access to more vibrant communities.

Positive Psychology Framework

The neurodiversity framework shares many synergies with the positive psychology movement. Positive psychology focuses on understanding and cultivating the strengths, well-being, and flourishing of individuals and communities, rather than solely addressing deficits and pathologies.

Just as positive psychology champions a strength-based approach, the neurodiversity framework moves away from the deficit-based medical model and instead recognizes the unique capabilities and potentials of neurodivergent individuals. Both perspectives emphasize the importance of supporting individuals from a full spectrum of humankind in reaching their full potential.

Positive Psychiatry Framework

Positive psychiatric theory builds upon the principles of positive psychology, applying them specifically to the mental health field. This approach views psychiatric conditions not as disorders to be cured, but as variations in human functioning that can be supported and even leveraged.

Similarly, the neurodiversity framework challenges the pathologization of neurological differences, instead framing them as natural variations in the human neurological landscape. Just as positive psychiatric theory advocates for person-centered care that honors individuals' subjective experiences, the neurodiversity movement empowers neurodivergent individuals to be the experts on their strengths and abilities.

Both perspectives emphasize the importance of creating environments that value diverse neurological profiles, rather than pressuring individuals to conform to neuromajority norms. This aligns with the neurodiversity movement's goal of building a more equitable and cohesive society that values the spectrum of diversity in humankind.

Sustainable
Development
Goals

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals adopted by all United Nations members, are a universal call to action with the aim of “peace and prosperity for people and the planet”. Among these goals, the following are specific terms that are related to neurodiversity under different categories.

SDG 4
Quality Education

By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including, among others, through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development

By 2030, build and upgrade education facilities that are child, disability, and gender sensitive and provide safe, nonviolent, inclusive, and effective learning environments for all

By 2030, eliminate gender disparities in education and ensure equal access to all levels of education and vocational training for the vulnerable, including persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and children in vulnerable situations

SDG 8
Decent Work & Economical Growth

By 2030, achieve full and productive employment and decent work for all women and men, including for young people and persons with disabilities, and equal pay for work of equal value.

SDG 10
Reduced Inequalities

By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status
Ensure equal opportunity and reduce inequalities of outcome, including by eliminating discriminatory laws, policies, and practices and promoting appropriate legislation, policies, and action in this regard

Neurodiversity
Myths

There are many myths about neurodiversity. While the list may change, there are a few common misconceptions and they are particularly important to be addressed.

"Neurodiversity" is only for a subset of our population.

Those unfamiliar with the concept of neurodiversity may often misunderstand it as either a mere perspective or a platform for individuals with neurological conditions to voice their opinions. However, the true essence of neurodiversity is far more profound.

At its core, neurodiversity recognizes the remarkable diversity of the human mind and cognitive abilities. It is a movement that emphasizes the inherent worth and rights of neurodivergent individuals as equal and valuable members of society. In fact, neurodiversity can be seen as a subset of the broader notion of "biodiversity" - the rich tapestry of life on our planet.

Far from a narrow perspective or a platform for a select few, the neurodiversity movement represents a holistic understanding of the richness and complexity of the human experience. It is a powerful call to embrace the diversity of our minds and to create a more equitable and supportive world for all.

“Neurodiversity Movement” dismisses challenges

The neurodiversity movement does not deny or minimize the very real difficulties that come with neurological differences. It recognizes that neurodivergent individuals often face significant struggles in various aspects of their lives and societal barriers that are often designed and built for neuromajorities. Rather than ignoring the challenges, the neurodiversity advocates for a shift in perspective and aims to reframe them within a strength-based and empowering framework. It encourages society to focus on the unique strengths and abilities of neurodivergent individuals, rather than solely on their deficits or difficulties.

Proponents of the neurodiversity movement often identify the significant societal barriers in education, employment, healthcare, and social settings and address these systematic challenges rather than coping within the deficits framework.

“Neurodiversity” does not apply to “High Functioning”

The term "high functioning" is often used to describe neurodivergent individuals who, on the surface, may appear to be managing well. The myth that “neurodiversity” does not apply to “high-functioning” individuals is a misconception because, and just because a neurodivergent individual can make friends, communicate verbally with ease, or perform well academically, it does not mean they are not struggling underneath with sensory processing, emotional regulation, social navigation, attention, executive functioning, etc. The “high-functioning” label often downplays the complex and nuanced experiences of neurodivergent individuals, denying their struggles and the essential understanding they need to thrive. Neurodiversity is a spectrum, therefore, all neurological variations are considered as part of the diversity under this umbrella.

Neurodiversity
Vocabulary

Let's learn some neurodiversity vocabulary together!

Neurodivergent

is a person whose neurological function is considered as different from that of the majority.

Neurodiversity

is an umbrella term that describes the spectrum of the ways the human brain works and these differences are to be valued.

Neurodiversity Movement

advocates for attitude system and policy change to align with the neurodiversity paradigm

Neurodiversity

Paradigm

advocates for a perspective shift from medical-based to social-based model

Neurokin

individuals whose neurology is similar to each other

Neuromajority

is a person whose neurological function is considered as similar from that of the majority.

Neurominority

is a person whose neurological function is considered as different from that of the majority.

Neurodiverse

a group of individuals who have a range of different ways of processing information

Neurotypical

is the group of people who are considered as the norm of how information is processed

Neuroscience

advocates for attitude system and policy change to align with the neurodiversity paradigm

Ableist Language

refers to the use of words that have some reference to a physical or visible disability. For example, some use the expression “the blind leading the blind” to refer to people who do not know what they are doing.

DEI

stands for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which is any policy or practice designed to make people of various backgrounds feel welcomed and ensure they have support to perform to the fullest of their abilities in the workplace.

Information Processing

is the way in which our brains take information from around us before responding. Different people can process the same info in different ways and this is the root of neurodiversity.