What is neurodiversity? - Harvard Health Skip to main content Recent Articles Hyaluronic acid for skin: Benefits, how to use it, and side effects Weight cycling linked to increased muscle loss Self-directed cognitive behavioral therapy may help alleviate chronic pain What men should know about proposed changes for testosterone therapy Ashwagandha: Benefits, side effects, and safety concerns Hearing aids: Types, costs, over-the-counter options, and AirPods Meditation techniques: How to meditate for stress, sleep, and focus Anti-inflammatory diet: Foods that help reduce chronic inflammation Legumes: Are they good for your heart? Treating peripheral artery disease: When might you need a procedure? / November 23, 2021 By Nicole Baumer, MD, MEd, Contributor, and Julia Frueh, MD, Guest Contributor Share {} }" > Share this page to Facebook Share this page to X Share this page via Email { this.copied = true; setTimeout(() => this.copied = false, 1000); }); } }" > Copy this page to clipboard Print This Page Click to Print Neurodiversity describes the idea that people experience and interact with the world around them in many different ways; there is no one "right" way of thinking, learning, and behaving, and differences are not viewed as deficits. The word neurodiversity refers to the diversity of all people, but it is often used in the context of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), as well as other neurological or developmental conditions such as ADHD or learning disabilities. The neurodiversity movement emerged during the 1990s, aiming to increase acceptance and inclusion of all people while embracing neurological differences. Through online platforms, more and more autistic people were able to connect and form a self-advocacy movement. At the same time, Judy Singer, an Australian sociologist, coined the term neurodiversity to promote equality and inclusion of "neurological minorities." While it is primarily a social justice movement, neurodiversity research and education is increasingly important in how clinicians view and address certain disabilities and neurological conditions. Words matter in neurodiversity Neurodiversity advocates encourage inclusive, nonjudgmental language. While many disability advocacy organizations prefer person-first language ("a person with autism," "a person with Down syndrome"), some research has found that the majority of the autistic community prefers identity-first language ("an autistic person"). Therefore, rather than making assumptions, it is best to ask directly about a person's preferred language, and how they want to be addressed. Knowledge about neurodiversity and respectful language is also important for clinicians, so they can address the mental and physical health of people with neurodevelopmental differences. Neurodiversity and autism spectrum disorder Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with differences in communication, learning, and behavior, though it can look different from person to person. People with ASD may have a wide range of strengths, abilities, needs, and challenges. For example, some autistic people are able to communicate verbally, have a normal or above average IQ, and live independently. Others might not be able to communicate their needs or feelings, may struggle with impairing and harmful behaviors that impact their safety and well-being, and may be dependent on support in all areas of their life. Additionally, for some people with autism, differences may not cause any suffering to the person themself. Instead, the suffering may result from the barriers imposed by societal norms, causing social exclusion and inequity. Medical evaluation and treatment is important for individuals with ASD. For example, establishing a formal diagnosis may enable access to social and medical services if needed. A diagnostic explanation may help the individual or their family understand their differences better and enable community connections. Additionally, neurodevelopmental conditions may also be associated with other health issues that require extra monitoring or treatment. It is important that people who need and desire behavioral supports or interventions to promote communication, social, academic, and daily living skills have access to those services in order to maximize their quality of life and developmental potential. However, approaches to interventions cannot be one-size-fits-all, as all individuals will have different goals, desires, and needs. Fostering neurodiversity in the workplace Stigma, a lack of awareness, and lack of appropriate infrastructure (such as office setup or staffing structures) can cause exclusion of people with neurodevelopmental differences. Understanding and embracing neurodiversity in communities, schools, healthcare settings, and workplaces can improve inclusivity for all people. It is important for all of us to foster an environment that is conducive to neurodiversity, and to recognize and emphasize each person's individual strengths and talents while also providing support for their differences and needs. How can employers make their workplaces more neurodiversity-friendly? Offer small adjustments to an employee's workspace to accommodate any sensory needs, such as Sound sensitivity: Offer a quiet break space, communicate expected loud noises (like fire drills), offer noise-cancelling headphones. Tactile: Allow modifications to the usual work uniform. Movements: Allow the use of fidget toys, allow extra movement breaks, offer flexible seating. Use a clear communication style: Avoid sarcasm, euphemisms, and implied messages. Provide concise verbal and written instructions for tasks, and break tasks down into small steps. Inform people about workplace/social etiquette, and don't assume someone is deliberately breaking the rules or being rude. Try to give advance notice if plans are changing, and provide a reason for the change. Don't make assumptions — ask a person's individual preferences, needs, and goals. Be kind, be patient. Resources to learn more about neurodiversity Neurodiversity in the Workplace About the Authors Nicole Baumer, MD, MEd, Contributor Nicole Baumer, MD, MEd is a child neurologist/neurodevelopmental disabilities specialist at Boston Children's Hospital, and an instructor in neurology at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Baumer is director of the Boston Children's Hospital Down Syndrome Program. She … See Full Bio View all posts by Nicole Baumer, MD, MEd Julia Frueh, MD, Guest Contributor Julia Frueh, MD, is a fifth-year child neurology resident at Boston Children's Hospital. She has a special interest in autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as transitions from pediatric to adult care. See Full Bio View all posts by Julia Frueh, MD Share {} }" > Share this page to Facebook Share this page to X Share this page via Email { this.copied = true; setTimeout(() => this.copied = false, 1000); }); } }" > Copy this page to clipboard Print This Page Click to Print Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician. 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