neurodiversity
noun
neu·ro·di·ver·si·ty
ˌnu̇r-ō-də-ˈvər-sə-tē
-dī-,
ˌnyu̇r-
1
: individual differences in brain functioning regarded as normal variations within the human population
Perhaps our difficulty in accepting and adjusting to these differences points to a limited understanding of the neurodiversity that surrounds us.—Serena Puang
2
: the concept that differences in brain functioning within the human population are normal and that brain functioning that is not neurotypical should not be stigmatized
Neurodiversity is the idea that variation in brain function exists across the population. Differences such as autism and ADHD have existed throughout human history and are not due to faulty neural circuitry. Rather than viewing them as such, neurodiversity embraces autism as a different way of thinking and behaving.—Psychology Today (online)
These autistic adults amplified the neurodiversity movement, and won greater recognition of the differences between autistic and neurotypical people …—Alisa Opar
3
: the inclusion in a group, organization, etc. of people with different types of brain functioning
They're committed to neurodiversity, a term used to advocate for the inclusion of people who think and communicate differently—like those with autism or ADHD.—Kara Stiles
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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