Neurodivergence - Mental illness or Mad Scientist?

Neurodivergence -

 Mental illness or Mad Scientist?

Who Is Neurodiverse/Neurotypical?

The terms "neurodivergent" and "neurodiverse" refer to people whose thought patterns, behaviors, or learning styles fall outside of what is considered "normal," or neurotypical of humans. The concept of neurodiversity is not necessarily disabilities. Some differences can be real strengths.

Who are Neurodivergent?

The neurodiverse population includes people with specific diagnoses that are considered developmental disorders (as opposed to intellectual disabilities or mental illnesses). These include but are not limited to:

Autism: A developmental disorder that includes differences in social communication skills, fine and gross motor skills, speech, and more

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ): A neurodevelopmental disorder that includes features of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity

Tourette's syndrome: A tic disorder that starts in childhood and involves involuntary, repetitive movements and vocalizations

Various learning disabilities such as dyslexia (difficulty with language skills, especially reading) and dyscalculia (difficulty with doing basic arithmetic)

Who are not neurodivergent? 

The term "neurodiversity" is rarely applied to mental health disorders such as schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder. However, there is a debate over whether the term is an appropriate one for treatable mental health illnesses as well.

Challenging Traits, Characteristics, and Signs of Neurodiversity

Being neurodiverse can be challenging. Some common and challenging signs of neurodiversity include:

Social communication difficulties, such as trouble making eye contact while talking or not reading body language

Speech and language challenges, such as stuttering and repetition

Learning challenges that may be related to difficulties with focus, reading, calculation, ability to follow spoken language, and/or problems with executive functioning (important skills, including working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control)

Unusual responses to sensory input (sensitivity or unusual insensitivity to light, sound, heat, cold, pressure, crowds, and other stimuli)

Unusual physical behaviors, such as rocking, expressing tics, blurting things out, and shouting at unexpected times

Inflexibility (inability to adapt or to change interests based on age or situation)

Because they are considered "not like everyone else," neurodivergent people may struggle with fitting in socially, behaving in expected ways, or easily adjusting to change. They also may be highly intelligent and live independently with few visible signs of their challenges.

Some signs of neurodiversity that can have a positive impact include:

Ability to stay focused on a topic or activity of interest for long periods

Outside-the-box thinking, which can lead to innovative solutions to challenges

Strong observational skills and attention to detail

Superior ability to recognize patterns, including in codes and behaviors

Having strong skills in areas such as music, art, technology, and science

Some experts recommend a holistic approach to education and development, rather than emphasizing "savant skills" alone in a neurodivergent person.

Compiled by

Ms Naresh kuwar