Neurodiversity (ND) refers to how each person’s brain functions and interprets information differently. Although we all show some signs of neurodivergence, expressed in our different interests and personality traits, most people in the UK are considered ‘neurotypical’. In other words, they think, behave and process information in predictable ways. But an estimated 15-20 percent of the world’s population is neurodivergent.
That umbrella term covers a range of neurological conditions. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is usually the most commonly associated because the neurodiversity movement grew from the autistic rights movement of the 1990s. But neurodiversity is broader than ASD alone. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, dyspraxia and Tourette’s syndrome are just a few of the other conditions that also come under this category.
In the UK, around one in seven people identify as neurodivergent. That’s more than 15 percent of the population. According to the National Autistic Society, there are around 700,000 autistic adults and children in the UK. Or one person in every 100. Meanwhile, the British Dyslexia Association estimates that ten percent of Britons are dyslexic, with around 4% of those at the more severe end of the dyslexia continuum.
The neurodiversity movement promotes the idea that neurological differences should be recognised and respected, just like any other human difference. Far from needing to be ‘cured’ – a still common but misguided sentiment – neurodivergent people need to be accommodated better to flourish. Both in society and the workplace. For that to truly happen, there needs to be greater awareness, understanding and a willingness to help.