Information on Autism and Neurodiversity

What is neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences in learning, attention, mood and other mental functions are natural variations of the human brain and should be recognised as part of the diversity of human experience. The term “neurodiversity” was first created by online autistic advocates to represent their experiences better. Neurodiversity is most often linked to autism and other neurodevelopment conditions such as ADHD, dyspraxia and dyslexia, dyscalculia, and Tourette’s, but is also used to refer to other conditions such as bi-polar, intellectual disabilities, epilepsy and schizophrenia as these too include differences in cognitive and sensory experience. The concept of neurodiversity was created as a challenge to previously prevailing pathologising narratives that were predominantly created by professionals rather than reflecting the experience of neurodivergent individuals.

Other helpful terms:

• “Neurotypical”, denotes the most “typical/common” style of cognitive functioning within the population. In the same way that humans vary in size and eye colour, Neurodiversity refers to variation in brain functioning. Whilst “neurodivergent” is the term for those whose neuro-type differs from the majority.
• “Neurodevelopmental conditions” is the medical term given to particular diagnoses that occur from birth due to differences in the functioning of the brain and nervous system. The exact causes of neurodevelopmental conditions are complex, involving primarily genetic and neurological factors, but also some environmental causes.

What is autism?

Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition, that affects how individuals perceive, process, and engage with the world. It is characterized by differences in communication, social interaction, sensory experiences, and patterns of behaviour or interests. Historically, autism was viewed within a medical deficit-focused paradigm. More recently the neurodiversity movement has argued that autism and other neurodivergent conditions represent a natural variation in human experience. Autistic people may have differences in communication, sensory processing, social interaction, and patterns of focus, which can manifest as strengths or challenges depending on the environment and support provided.

Rather than a singular condition, autism encompasses a spectrum of traits and experiences that vary among individuals. Here are some key features:

Communication:

Communication differences between autistic and non-autistic people are rooted in variations in sensory processing, social expectations, and information processing. These differences are not deficits but rather distinct styles of interaction. Some key distinctions include:

• Directness and Literal Interpretation: Autistic individuals often value direct and precise communication, sometimes interpreting language literally. Non-autistic individuals might rely more on implied meanings, idioms, or subtle social cues, which can lead to misunderstandings.
• Nonverbal Communication: Autistic people may use or interpret nonverbal cues like facial expressions, gestures, and tone of voice differently. For example, they might maintain less eye contact, which is often a cultural expectation but not inherently tied to understanding or attention.
• Social Reciprocity: Conversations for autistic individuals might focus more on exchanging information rather than adhering to conventional patterns of small talk or reciprocity, which are common among non-autistic people.

Social interaction: The stereotype that autistic people don’t want relationships is a myth. Most autistic people value relationships and social interaction, however they tend to find it difficult to pick up on the unspoken social rules that the majority non-autistic population use without thinking. Autistic people may prefer particular types of socialising, such as structured interest focused groups or connections with animals or nature.

Sensory differences: Many autistic people also have difference in how they experience sensations. For example, they may be more or less sensitive to sounds, touch, tastes, smells, and light than non-autistic people. Autistic people may also have differences in sensing their body, movements, pain, hunger. This affects people in a whole variety of ways, including finding workplaces, public transport overwhelming, co-ordinating movement and accessing medical care.

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is another neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals process information, regulate attention and emotion, and manage energy levels and other executive functioning differences. The diagnostic criteria looks for persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning across various settings. Individuals with ADHD often display creativity, innovation, and the ability to hyper-focus on topics of interest, though they may also experience difficulties with organization, time management, or sustaining attention in traditional settings. Individuals with ADHD may not experience these differences as inherently problematic but can become barriers when environments and expectations are not designed with neurodiversity in mind.

Terminological and neurodiversity

Getting the right language and terminology can be tricky. There have been lots of changes to the terms used concerning autism. Initially doctors diagnosed people with infant schizophrenia, now the current diagnostic terminology is Autism Spectrum Disorder. More recently there have been various studies and surveys asking autistic people what they prefer. Generally, it is viewed that “identity-first” language is preferred; i.e. “autistic person”, in the same way that you would say someone is gay, Christian, non-binary. This highlights autism is part of the individuals identity, rather than an illness or disorder; for example “person with cancer”. This distinction is a way of highlighting that autism is not pathological, but rather a way of being in the world in the same way as other aspects of our identity. However, what is most important is respecting whatever terminology the individual themselves prefers; some people like to be called “Aspie”, “Auti”, other people prefer the term “neurodivergent”. Respecting these individual choices is essential.

How can I specialise in neurodivergence?

In recent years there has been growing awareness about the number of autistic and neurodivergent people there are. Unfortunately, there is still a lack of resources, services, diagnostic pathways, meaning many children and adults end up struggling. If you work in the health care, social care or educational sector developing your knowledge of neurodiversity can be a really beneficial. Having a postgraduate qualification in autism or neurodivergence conditions equips you to specialise your professional skills and enhance your practice. The courses at NSPC provide a range of postgraduate qualifications, that vary in length, intensity and focus and all are online and part time, so you can study whilst you work. Many teachers, university lectures, psychotherapists, social care workers, nurses, and other professionals have found post graduate training has significantly developed their practice and confidence. This may help you towards applying for specialist roles (such as working in an autistic service) or as a private professional capacity (such as a counsellor or tutor specialising in neurodiversity). Professionals in recruitment, HR, computing and IT have also found our courses beneficial, in particular how autistic and neurodivergent individuals can enhance their business.

Get in touch for more information about our courses in neurodiversity, or how we support our neurodivergent students and staff people.