Neurodivergence Awareness Month: What is Neurodivergence?
April 2024
By NTI
Neurodivergence refers to natural variations in how individuals' brains function and process information. It encompasses a wide range of conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Dyslexia, which are often characterized by differences in cognition, sensory perception, communication, and behavior compared to what is considered standard. People with neurodivergence refer to themselves as neurodivergent.
Neurodivergent individuals may have strengths and challenges that differ from the neurotypical population, and embracing neurodiversity means recognizing and valuing these differences rather than viewing them as deficits. Studies suggest that 15-20% of the US population is Neurodivergent.
Here is a closer look at some of the most recognized neurodivergence conditions:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Individuals with autism may have challenges with social communication and interaction, as well as restricted interests and repetitive behaviors.
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD may have trouble focusing, sitting still, and controlling their impulses.
Dyslexia: A specific learning disability that affects reading and language processing. People with dyslexia may have difficulty with reading fluency, decoding words, and spelling, despite having normal intelligence and adequate instruction.
Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder): A disorder that affects motor coordination and planning. Individuals with dyspraxia may have trouble with activities such as tying shoelaces, handwriting, or participating in sports due to challenges in coordinating movements.
Dyscalculia: A specific learning disability that affects mathematical ability and number sense. People with dyscalculia may struggle with understanding mathematical concepts, memorizing arithmetic facts, and performing calculations.
Tourette Syndrome: A neurological disorder characterized by involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. These tics can range from mild to severe and can significantly impact daily functioning.
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): A condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information from the senses. Individuals with SPD may be over- or under-sensitive to sensory stimuli, leading to difficulties in processing and regulating sensory input.
It's important to note that neurodivergence is a broad concept, and there are many other conditions and variations that fall under this umbrella. Everyone’s experience with neurodivergence is unique, and there is a wide spectrum of abilities and challenges within each condition.
NTI works with Americans with disabilities and their family caregivers to find job opportunities with government organizations, Fortune 500 companies, large and small companies to work at home in call center positions. Register at www.ntcentral.org.