My work is based on the neurodiversity paradigm.  This stands in opposition to the deficit / disorder framework which forms the foundation for the majority of the research and treatment of neurodivergent people over the past century.

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The neurodiversity paradigm views neurodivergences as simply different ways of being human - "different not less".  Neurodiversity affirms the necessity of those with lived experience not only being involved in the research but actually designing and leading it. 

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In the words of Nick Walker, a prominent autistic writer and educator:

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1.) Neurodiversity is a natural and valuable form of human diversity.

 

2.) The idea that there is one “normal” or “healthy” type of brain or mind, or one “right” style of neurocognitive functioning, is a culturally constructed fiction, no more valid (and no more conducive to a healthy society or to the overall well-being of humanity) than the idea that there is one “normal” or “right” ethnicity, gender, or culture.

 

3.) The social dynamics that manifest in regard to neurodiversity are similar to the social dynamics that manifest in regard to other forms of human diversity (e.g., diversity of ethnicity, gender, or culture). These dynamics include the dynamics of social power inequalities, and also the dynamics by which diversity, when embraced, acts as a source of creative potential.

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NEURODIVERSITY: SOME BASIC TERMS & DEFINITIONS • NEUROQUEER

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What does it mean to be Neurodivergent?

 

A neurodivergent person's nervous system "diverges" - or differs significantly - from societal norms.  We can be born neurodivergent (sometimes called innate neurodivergence) or we can acquire it later on. 

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Autism and ADHD are examples of innate neurodivergence while epilepsy  and traumatic brain injuries are acquired.  The neurodiversity movement does not oppose proposals to "treat" acquired neurodivergence because clearly this would not be tantamount to getting rid of core aspects of someone's personhood.   This is very different to attempts to cure autism, for example, where there would be a very real attempt to get rid of core parts of someone's basic way of being and personality.