BACKGROUND Past

Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist, coined the term Neurodiversity in 1999. 4 It speaks to the different ways our brains are wired, leading to unique skills, needs and abilities. Those differences impact social dynamics, cognitive functioning, motor skills, attention, sensory stimulations, speech, language, and learning. Upon creation, neurodiversity was intended to be similar to biodiversity in that neurodiversity does not define a certain subgroup of individuals but rather speaks to the infinite variations of the human brain.

In contrast, there is a movement utilizing the term neurodiversity as a way to empower certain subgroups with diagnoses. The term has evolved to classify individuals as either neurodivergent or neurotypical, with neurotypical referencing those who display average patterns of thought and behavior. But this evolution has created the question, who defines average vs. who is considered neurodivergent?

Currently, the answer seems dependent on who you ask, but all responses reference a range of subgroups when speaking to neurodiversity. For example, many define neurodiverse as those with Autism, Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder, Down Syndrome, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, Dyspraxia, Dysgraphia, Meares-Irlen Syndrome, Hyperlexia, Tourette Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Synesthesia, Trauma Disorders and other mental health disorders (see definitions on proceeding pages). The list is extensive and often expanding. Furthermore, it varies based on how one defines ‘normal’ or neurotypical. Within each diagnosis there is also a range of classifications and differing needs making designing for individuals based on diagnoses limiting. Additionally, it leaves out those that are unable or have yet to receive a diagnosis.

With that in mind, there is also an understanding that labels can empower some. To those with certain neurological needs, putting a label on their differences gives them a sense of relief and belonging. Currently, labels still impact our benefits, the welfare system and how many receive help. For employees, a label can provide a term to reference when requesting accommodations. So how do we cater to supporting diagnoses, without being constrained by them?