Neurodiversity is an idea that asserts that atypical (neurodivergent) neurological development is a normal human difference that is to be tolerated and respected as any other human difference.^[1] The concept of neurodiversity is embraced by some autistic individuals and people with related conditions. Some groups apply the concept of neurodiversity to bipolar disorder, ADHD,^[2] developmental speech disorders, Parkinson's disease, as well as dyslexic, dyspraxic, hyperactive people.^[2]

History of the term

According to an article in New York Magazine, the term was put forward by Judy Singer and first published by Harvey Blume.^[3] The earliest published use of the term appears in a New York Times article by Harvey Blume on September 30, 1998:^[4]

Previous to this, although Blume did not make explicit use of the term Neurodiversity, he wrote in a New York Times piece on June 30, 1997:^[5]

Blume is also notable for his early public advocacy and prediction of the role the internet would play in fostering neurodiversity.^[6]

The term mostly appears within the online autistic community, but its usage has spread to a more general meaning; for example, the Developmental Adult Neurodiversity Association (DANDA) in the UK encompasses developmental dyspraxia, ADHD, Asperger syndrome and related conditions.^[7] Usage of the term has seen a boost with a 2004 New York Times article by Amy Harmon, "The Disability Movement Turns to Brains".^[1]

Proponents and opponents

Many supporters of neurodiversity are anti-cure autistics, who are engaged in advocacy; some parents of autistic children also support neurodiversity. Such parents say they value their children's individuality and want to allow their children to develop naturally. For example, Morton Ann Gernsbacher is a parent of an autistic child and a psychology professor, who argues that autistics need acceptance, not a cure, and endorses the theory that autism cannot be separated from the person.^[8]

References

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