neurodiversity

noun

neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​si·​ty ˌnu̇r-ō-də-ˈvər-sə-tē 

-dī-,

ˌnyu̇r-

1

: individual differences in brain functioning regarded as normal variations within the human population

Perhaps our difficulty in accepting and adjusting to these differences points to a limited understanding of the neurodiversity that surrounds us.

—Serena Puang

2

: the concept that differences in brain functioning within the human population are normal, that brain functioning that is not neurotypical should not be stigmatized, and that people with neurodivergent brain functioning should not be excluded from groups, organizations, etc.

Neurodiversity is the idea that variation in brain function exists across the population. Differences such as autism and ADHD have existed throughout human history and are not due to faulty neural circuitry. Rather than viewing them as such, neurodiversity embraces autism as a different way of thinking and behaving.

—Psychology Today

They're committed to neurodiversity, a term used to advocate for the inclusion of people who think and communicate differently—like those with autism and ADHD.

—Kara Stiles

Examples of neurodiversity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite most companies' increasing focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) in the workforce, neurodiversity is often overlooked in hiring efforts. —Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024

Becoming, accepting, and embracing my neurodiversity has taken some of the weight off my shoulders. —Emily Owen, Newsweek, 25 Nov. 2024

Shaun Arora is helping leaders thrive as a Partner at Evolution, while challenging views on neurodiversity as the Founder at BrainTypes. —Shaun Arora, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024

To him, the share of people seeing adverse impacts to their career after requesting an accommodation shows that organizations have not done enough to make workplaces equitable for neurodivergent people, reduce stigma, and improve understanding about neurodiversity. —Paige McGlauflin, Fortune, 15 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

neuro- + diversity, after biodiversity

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

neurodiversity

noun

neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​si·​ty -də-ˈvər-sə-tē, -dī- 

1

: individual differences in brain functioning regarded as normal variations within the human population

… parents are expressing reservations about enrolling their child in early intervention programs, citing concerns that such programs do not value neurodiversity and, instead, prioritize changing their child's behavior to fit neurotypical norms.

—Geraldine Dawson et al., JAMA Pediatrics

2

: the concept that differences in brain functioning within the human population are normal, that brain functioning that is not neurotypical should not be stigmatized, and that people with neurodivergent brain functioning should not be excluded from groups, organizations, etc.

The neurodiversity movement holds that ASD [=autism spectrum disorder] is characterized not merely by impediments, but also by normal functioning, as well as cognitive strengths. ASD, on this account, may be best understood as a cognitive difference, not as a shortcoming.

—Deborah R. Barnbaum, Ethics and Neurodiversity