Neurodivergency refers to the presence of natural variations in how people’s brains work — like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette’s, and more. It’s a way to describe the state of having a brain that functions differently from the so-called “norm.”
The word blends neuro (brain) and divergency (a state of differing), and comes from the neurodiversity movement, which reframes these differences not as medical problems, but as valid, valuable parts of human diversity. Sociologist Judy Singer coined the original term “neurodivergent” in the 1990s to challenge stigma and redefine what “normal” means.
Neurodivergency recognizes that brains don’t all work the same — and that’s okay. Some people may think in images, hyper-focus on details, or have strong sensory sensitivity. These differences can be challenging in rigid systems like schools or workplaces, but they also offer incredible strengths — especially when those environments are designed to be inclusive.
The opposite of neurodivergency is neurotypicality. And the goal isn’t to “fix” neurodivergent people, but to adapt systems so more kinds of minds can thrive.
Explore more at Neurodiversity Hub.
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