Neurodiversity in Autism Spectrum Conditions
4th February 2019
The terminology and language we use to describe things around us is very important. Our language is reflective of our attitudes and can also help shape the attitudes of those around us. Frequently when discussing the autistic spectrum, we use medicalised terms such as ‘disorder’ or ‘disability’, which can sometimes cause us to focus on what the person struggles with, rather than looking at someone as a whole. However, in the past few years a new term has emerged in the field of autism spectrum disorders; neurodiversity.
The concept of neurodiversity is quite a complex one. Its basic premise is that as humans, our neurological functions naturally vary, which can result in differences in the way that we behave and view things. Put simply; humans are not one-size-fits-all. In turn, this means that differences in neurological function such as autism spectrum conditions, rather than being a ‘disorders’, are just a natural result of this variation.
An important part of the neurodiversity concept is that it is dimensional. A brilliant way to explain this comes from Do-IT solutions, in a series of blogs about neurodiversity. They explain that rather than being categorical, neurodiversity is on a spectrum, like height. In a similar way to which people sit on a scale of height, with it difficult to distinguish the dividing line between short, average height and tall; people also sit on a scale of neurodiversity. Some people display more extreme neurological differences from what may be considered ‘typical’, while others display less obvious differences. It is easy to notice those with extreme differences and classify them, whereas those with milder differences are difficult to classify. This can help explain why some people on the autistic spectrum display a lot of ‘symptoms’, whilst others display relatively little.
Neurodiversity is important as it represents the move away from the idea that autism is something we should try to cure. Instead, it promotes the view that rather than simply focusing on the issues that neurodevelopmental differences can bring, we should celebrate the different world-views and skills that neurodiverse people have, and what they can add. This change in view point could have a number of potential benefits for those on the autistic spectrum. For example, it could help reduce the employment gap that currently exists, where only around 16% of those with autism spectrum conditions are in full-time paid employment, by encouraging businesses to consider employing more people on the autistic spectrum based on their unique skills and abilities.
However, it is important that the concept of neurodiversity doesn’t lead to us overlooking the difficulties that those on the autistic spectrum may face, even if these difficulties arise only because our society is built for ‘neurotypical’ people. Some people on the autistic spectrum face daily problems and struggles which should not be diminished or ignored. While autism spectrum conditions should not be looked at as something to be ‘cured’, there are certainly things that can be done to help make the lives of many people on the autistic spectrum easier and more positive in many ways. Therapies to address things such as anxiety and emotional regulation can be really useful for many people on the autistic spectrum, while employment support and community-based services can be really beneficial in improving their every day lives.
All in all, while we should be careful to remember that many people on the autistic spectrum still face struggles, the neurodiversity movement is extremely encouraging. I remain hopeful that it could be a positive step towards changing people’s attitudes towards neurodevelopmental conditions, and promoting acceptance in society.
Psychology Chartered are really pleased to announce that our new 16+ Adult Autism Spectrum Condition service has been kick started this week by the arrival of Dr Helen Riley, a Clinical Psychologist with specialist experience in working with those with social communication and interaction difficulties. For more information on this service, please email lily@psychologychartered.co.uk or keep an eye on our website psychologychartered.co.uk for upcoming information.