Dyslexia linked to Neurodiversity?

Dyslexia – a Disability or a Different Ability?

Is Dyslexia is linked to Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is the concept that there is a wide range of differences in how people’s brains function and process information. It emphasizes that these differences are natural variations rather than deficits.

Here are some key points to help you understand more about the link between Dyslexia and Neurodiversity:

1. Definition: Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of all people’s ways of thinking, learning, and behaving. It includes conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Dyslexia, and other neurological or developmental conditions. In other words “They have a different thought process”.
2. Origins: The term “neurodiversity” was coined by Australian sociologist Judy Singer in the late 1990s. The movement aims to promote acceptance and inclusion of all people, embracing neurological differences.
3. Language: Neurodiversity advocates encourage the use of inclusive and nonjudgmental language. For example, some prefer identity-first language (e.g., “an autistic person”) over person-first language (e.g., “a person with autism”). Neurodivergent’s are often saddled with negative labels.
4. Strengths and Challenges: People who are neurodivergent may have unique strengths, such as exceptional memory or creativity, as well as challenges, such as difficulties with social interactions or learning.
   Dyslexics may be sitting with other dyslexic people like Henry Ford, Alexander Graham Bell, Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, John Lennon, Steve Jobs, Winston Churchill, Muhammad Ali, the list goes on.
5. Social Impact: Dyslexia can impose significant trauma on a person by labelling a person as lazy, dumb, an idiot, and many other negative labels. As a result they eventually believe what they are told. We can all seek to celebrate the beauty of differences with a curious mind rather than focus on criticisms. It emphasizes that many challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals are due to societal norms rather than the gift of a different perspective.
6. Health Perspective: While neurodiversity is primarily a social justice movement, it also influences how health care professionals view and address neurological conditions. Medical and Psychological evaluation and treatment can help individuals access necessary support and services needed to overcome deep seated emotional injury caused by negative messages delivered by often well-meaning care givers or close associates over one’s lifetime.

Understanding the gift of neurodiversity helps create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

To read more about the impact of the social stigma around Dyslexia go to The social stigma around Dyslexia.

If you have any specific questions or need more details about how we at BSetFree can help, please ask!

Other sources of information.

1 What is neurodiversity? – Harvard Health

2 Neurodivergent: What It Is, Symptoms & Types – Cleveland Clinicneurodiversity