neurodiversity

noun

neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​si·​ty ˌnu̇r-ō-də-ˈvər-sə-tē How to pronounce neurodiversity (audio)
-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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In the end, the Jacksons embrace Talia’s neurodiversity. Amy Davidson Sorkin, The New Yorker, 21 Oct. 2024 According to a recent survey, 68% of employees reported being unfamiliar with neurodiversity, and only 14% had received any form of training on managing neurodivergent employees. Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 In addition to innovation factors linked to race and gender, research from Deloitte also indicates that neurodiversity can drive innovation thanks to different cognitive approaches, deep focus and resilience. Kate Vitasek, Forbes, 17 Oct. 2024 But a growing number of people embrace the neurodiversity movement, proposing that autism is simply another way to move through the world. Celia Ford, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018 See all Example Sentences for neurodiversity 

Word History

Etymology

neuro- + diversity, after biodiversity

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of neurodiversity was in 1998

Dictionary Entries Near neurodiversity

Cite this Entry

“Neurodiversity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neurodiversity. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

neurodiversity

noun
neu·​ro·​di·​ver·​si·​ty -də-ˈvər-sə-tē, -dī- How to pronounce neurodiversity (audio)
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
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