ND Definitions & What is AuDHD?

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Neurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and respects the variety of differences in human brain function and behavior, viewing them as normal variations rather than deficits or disorders. It emphasizes that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other developmental and learning differences, are part of the natural spectrum of human diversity.

Key points about neurodiversity include:

1. Natural Variation: Neurodiversity suggests that brain differences are normal and should be respected as a part of human diversity, similar to variations in ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.
2. Strengths and Challenges: It acknowledges that neurodivergent individuals may have unique strengths and face specific challenges. For instance, some people with autism may excel in pattern recognition or detail-oriented tasks, while others may struggle with social interactions.
3. Social Model of Disability: The neurodiversity movement often aligns with the social model of disability, which posits that societal barriers and prejudices are the main contributors to the difficulties faced by disabled people, rather than their individual impairments.
4. Advocacy and Inclusion: Proponents of neurodiversity advocate for greater inclusion, accommodation, and understanding of neurodivergent individuals in all areas of society, including education, employment, and healthcare.
5. Shift in Perspective: Neurodiversity encourages a shift in perspective from trying to "fix" or "cure" neurodivergent individuals to creating supportive environments that allow them to thrive.

The terms "neurodiversity" and "neurodivergence" are related but distinct concepts within the framework of understanding neurological differences.

• Definition: Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of human brains and minds, the idea that neurological differences are natural and valuable variations within the human population.
• Scope: It is a broad concept that encompasses everyone, recognizing that all people have unique neurological makeups.
• Perspective: Emphasizes the need to appreciate and respect these differences as part of the natural range of human variation.
• Movement: Often associated with a social movement that advocates for the rights and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals, pushing against the idea that there is a single "normal" way for brains to function.

• Definition: Neurodivergence refers to specific individuals whose neurological development and functioning differ from what is considered typical or neurotypical.
• Scope: It applies to individuals with specific conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other cognitive or developmental differences.
• Perspective: Focuses on the unique characteristics, strengths, and challenges of these individuals.
• Use: Describes a condition or set of traits that deviate from the typical neurological development or functioning.

• Neurodiversity is a broad, inclusive term that describes the entire spectrum of human neurological differences, promoting a societal perspective of these differences as natural and valuable.
• Neurodivergence refers specifically to individuals who diverge from typical neurological development, highlighting the specific traits and experiences of those individuals.