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

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

The world is becoming more aware of the need to accommodate neurodiversity, but true inclusivity goes far beyond merely acknowledging differences. —Jennifer Jay Palumbo, Forbes, 30 Sep. 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