The neurodiversity paradigm rejects the notion that neurodivergence is a disorder, deficit or problem that needs to be fixed. Instead, neurodivergence is viewed as part of natural human diversity and Neurodivergent people are recognised and celebrated for their strengths and abilities. The neurodiversity paradigm is closely aligned with the social model of disability (Oliver, 1996), which takes a strengths-based approach to working with disabled people and seeks to alter social norms, perceptions and environmental conditions so that society becomes more accepting and inclusive of Neurodivergent people – rather than Neurodivergent people having to ‘fit’ into a neurotypical society. The neurodiversity paradigm has been written about by many researchers, activists and community groups over the years, including Singer (2017)18, Botha and colleagues (2024)19 and Walker (2021)20.
References
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Singer, J. (2017). Neurodiversity: The birth of an idea.
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Botha, M., Chapman, R., Giwa Onaiwu, M., Kapp, S. K., Stannard Ashley, A., & Walker, N. (2024). The neurodiversity concept was developed collectively: An overdue correction on the origins of neurodiversity theory. Autism, 28(6), 1591–1594.
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Walker, N. (2021). Neuroqueer heresies: Notes on the neurodiversity paradigm, autistic empowerment, and postnormal possibilities. Autonomous Press.
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