Understanding Neurodivergence: Why Words Matter
When we think about neurodivergence, many people focus on the traits that make individuals unique, creativity, problem-solving skills, or attention to detail. However, the way we talk about neurodivergent individuals often tells a different story. Terms like "deficits" or "disorders" dominate discussions in educational, medical, and societal contexts, shaping how neurodivergent people are perceived and treated. As someone specializing in neurodivergence and neurodivergent myself, I believe it's time to examine how the language we use affects the lives of neurodivergent individuals.
The Weight of Pathologizing Language
Pathologizing language, words that frame neurodivergence as inherently negative, is deeply rooted in medical and psychological systems. These systems often describe conditions like ADHD or autism through a lens of what’s "wrong" rather than what’s different. For example, terms like “impairments" or "abnormal" perpetuate the narrative that neurodivergent individuals are broken versions of a "normal" ideal.
This framing does more than stigmatize; it influences policy, education, and workplace practices. If neurodivergence is viewed as a deficit, then support systems often focus on "fixing" individuals rather than embracing and accommodating their differences. This can erode self-esteem and create barriers to success, as neurodivergent individuals internalize the message that they are less capable or valuable.
Real-World Consequences of Negative Framing
Take education as an example. A neurodivergent child may be described as "disruptive" or "underperforming" in school, leading to interventions aimed at correcting these perceived shortcomings. Rarely are their unique ways of learning or thinking celebrated or integrated into curricula. In the workplace, adults labelled as "disorganized" or "lacking focus" might miss out on opportunities for advancement, even if their unconventional thinking is precisely what’s needed for innovative solutions.
The harm extends to self-perception. Neurodivergent people often struggle with feelings of inadequacy because society continually measures them against neurotypical standards. This can lead to mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression, compounding the difficulties they already face.
A Call for Neurodivergent-Affirming Language
To shift this paradigm, we need to adopt neurodivergent-affirming language. This means using terms that validate and celebrate neurodivergent experiences. For instance, instead of saying someone "suffers from" ADHD, we can say they "have an ADHD-style brain.” Instead of focusing on "deficits," we can highlight "strengths and differences."
Language has power. By framing neurodivergence in a neutral or positive light, we can challenge stigma and open the door to acceptance and inclusion. This doesn’t mean ignoring challenges, neurodivergent individuals often face real struggles, but it shifts the focus from fixing people to fixing systems that exclude them.
Building a Better Future
My goal is to help neurodivergent individuals and their families thrive by working with their natural tendencies, not against them. This includes advocating for language that empowers rather than diminishes. Whether I’m helping a school develop inclusive strategies or guiding parents navigating a new diagnosis, the message remains the same: neurodivergence is not a flaw. It’s a different, valuable way of experiencing the world.
Let’s start by changing the words we use. Together, we can create a society that not only accepts neurodivergence but celebrates it.
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