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 and that brain functioning that is not neurotypical should not be stigmatized

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 (online)

These autistic adults amplified the neurodiversity movement, and won greater recognition of the differences between autistic and neurotypical people …

—Alisa Opar

3

: the inclusion in a group, organization, etc. of people with different types of brain functioning

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

—Kara Stiles

Examples of neurodiversity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In the workplace, diversity is often limited to visible traits like race and gender, which overlooks factors like neurodiversity or different personality styles. —Expert Panel®, Forbes, 1 Mar. 2024

As a candidate for state Assembly, my aim is to integrate neurodiversity into legislation. —The San Diego Union-Tribune Staff, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Feb. 2024

Embracing neurodiversity in the workplace is vital to building strong, inclusive, and productive teams. —Dr. Samantha Madhosingh, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2024

This program serves as a powerful platform for positive change, greater awareness, and creating a more inclusive society that values and recognizes the contributions of neurodiversity. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Jan. 2024

According to a study from the University of California at San Francisco, neurodiversity correlates with entrepreneurial drive. —Andy Dunn, Fortune, 25 Jan. 2024

The panelists, each with their unique communication styles, share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the significance of neurodiversity representation. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Dec. 2023

The neurodiversity movement says that the brains that diverge from the average within that range shouldn’t be dismissed as deficient automatically. —Shayla Love, Discover Magazine, 7 Dec. 2023

Employee resource groups for neurodiversity, the group said, are also becoming more common and impactful, and CHROs should engage them as full partners. —Matthew Heimer, Fortune, 1 Nov. 2023

Word History

Etymology

neuro- + diversity, after biodiversity

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined at sense 1