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Defining NeurodiversityAutistic Adults Embrace their Differences
Understanding the concept of neurodiversity is important for professionals working in autism-related fields. Learn the basics of neurodiversity here.
The Double-Tongued Dictionary defines neurodiversity as “the whole of human mental or psychological neurological structures or behaviors, seen as not necessarily problematic, but as alternate, acceptable forms of human biology.” The neurodiversity movement is largely centered on accepting autism and its related conditions as merely an extension of natural human existence instead of something that needs to be cured, solved, or fixed. With the media flurry surrounding autism and its possible causes and solutions, the voice of neurodiversity advocates needs to also be heard. The Autism Acceptance ProjectThe Autism Acceptance Project (TAAProject) is leading the neurodiversity movement. TAAProject strives to bring a positive view of autism to the public; this is achieved through forums, lectures, exhibitions, advocacy and support. The TAAProject is run by both autistic and non-autistic individuals; through their collaboration they seek to promote the “acceptance of and accommodations for autistic people in society.” From the TAAProject mission statement “We, as autistic people and friends and family of autistic individuals, do not see autism as a 'tragic epidemic.' We view autism as a part of life – with both challenges and abilities that deserve to be accommodated. We believe that autistic individuals have the right to participate in all levels of autism advocacy, at all levels of government, and at all agencies and committees making policies about autism, alongside families and supporters.” Neurodiversity-Positive LanguageOne way that the public can support the neurodiversity movement is through the use of neurodiversity-positive language. One of the most offensive words to those who believe in neurodiversity is disorder. The word disorder has immediate negative connotations; instead consider using the word condition. "Autism spectrum conditions" is more neurodiverse-friendly than "autism spectrum disorders". Another incredibly offensive word, when used to describe non-autistic individuals, is "normal". By stating that someone who is not autistic is normal, you are implying that someone who is autistic is not normal. Consider using the words typical or average. Autism is a hot topic of conversation and believe it or not can be extremely controversial. On one hand you have a large group of individuals, mostly made up of parents of autistic children, who are seeking to cure their children of autism. On the other hand you have an equally large group of individuals, made up of both parents of autistic children and autistic individuals, who do not feel that autism is either curable or something that needs to be cured. Autism is merely a different way of experiencing the world. Diversity is a concept that is usually welcomed with open arms; neurodiversity should be equally respected. Sources The Autism Acceptance Project The Double-Tongued Dictionary
The copyright of the article Defining Neurodiversity in Autism/Asperger's Syndrome is owned by Melissa Hincha-Ownby. Permission to republish Defining Neurodiversity in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.
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