The term ‘neurodiversity’ has been showing up more and more often in Google searches since 2019. More and more people are becoming familiar with the concept, and it is gaining traction in discussions about diversity and inclusion. Still, it can be confusing what exactly is covered by neurodiversity, especially when terms like neurodivergent and neurotypical come around the corner. In this blog, we explain what neurodiversity is and why it is an essential part of a diverse workplace.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in the way people think, learn and process information. The idea is simple: just as there is variation in, say, skin colour or cultural backgrounds, there are also different ways in which brains work. This means that there is no ‘normal’ brain; instead, people have different neurological profiles.
Looking at the bigger picture, neurodiversity falls under the broader diversity concept, such as biodiversity, cultural diversity and gender diversity. It recognises that there is no standard way in which brains should work. This helps us distance ourselves from the idea that people who think or learn differently have an abnormality or disability.
Neurotypical vs. Neurodivergent
People with a neurotypical brain have a way of thinking and processing information that is most common. Neurotypical people experience the world in a way that fits well with how our society is organised. But not everyone falls within this dominant neurotype.
When the brain works in a different way from the neurotypical brain, we call it neurodivergent. The term ‘divergent’ comes from the English language and literally means ‘different from the norm’. Yet we should be careful with this, because from the neurodivergent model, there is no such thing as a standard brain that others deviate from. A neurodivergent brain simply works differently and has unique characteristics. This model helps to move away from the idea that neurodivergence is a disease or disability.
What falls under neurodivergence?
Many famous people are neurodivergent, such as Elon Musk and Albert Einstein. Neurodivergence is more common than you might think; it is estimated that around 15-20% of the workforce is neurodivergent. This percentage may even be higher, as many people do not yet have an official diagnosis or do not know they are neurodivergent.
Neurodivergence covers a broad group of people with different neurological profiles, such as:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD);
- ADHD;
- Dyslexia;
- Dyscalculia;
- Dysnomia;
- Dyspraxia;
- High sensitivity;
- Giftedness.
These neurodivergent profiles often present unique challenges in a society set up for neurotypical brains. But that absolutely does not mean that neurodivergent people are less capable. In fact, their unique ways of thinking can add great value, especially in fields such as IT.ren van denken kunnen een grote toegevoegde waarde zijn, vooral in werkvelden zoals de IT.
Talents of neurodivergent people
Neurodivergent people often have special talents that set them apart. In general, they are found to make greater use of their right brain, which is associated with skills such as:
- Emotional intelligence
- Creativity
- Making connections
- Picture thinking
- Associative thinking
- Fantasy
These talents make neurodivergent people ideally suited for work where problem-solving skills and creativity are key. Especially in sectors such as IT, we see that neurodivergent people often excel thanks to their innovative thinking patterns and ability to see connections that others may miss.
A neuro-inclusive workplace
By embracing neurodiversity, as an employer you create an environment where everyone can contribute in their unique way. Neurodivergent people often bring unique perspectives and talents that are hugely valuable to teams and organisations. Instead of focusing on what is different, we can harness the power of those differences to drive innovation and foster an inclusive work culture.
Do you also want to get started creating a workplace where there is room for everyone, regardless of how their brain works? Then check out our page for more information on how to create an inclusive work environment. Together, we can build a more diverse and stronger future.
