Neurodiversity Beyond Autism and ADHD — Part 2: The Power of the Neurodiversity Paradigm

Terms defined -Neurodivergence “a bodymind that functions differently from the socially expected norm.”-Janae Elisabeth @autietraumageek

I am attracted to the movements in Autistic and ADHD communities, as I am sure many are, because of the idea that these diagnoses can be pridefully integrated as part of one’s identity. These movements, in line with disability justice principles, explain that it is not the neurodivergence that causes disability, but societal and social structures that disable. By not meeting the needs of these populations, societal and social structures create barriers for functioning within these systems and can cause clinically significant stress.

It is this stress that is responsible for many of the qualifying symptoms for the individual to meet diagnostic criteria as a “disorder.” The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria do not reflect these neurodivergence’s, rather, the symptoms born from the trauma these individuals faced within these harmful systems. It is important to note that what is considered functional and non-functional is culturally concocted. In a colonial capitalist society, functioning means compacity for labor.

It is postulated, in the neurodivergence theories, that with the right nurturance and societal and social support, these neurodivergences would not be disorders at all. The wide-spread circulation of these ideas has made it possible for Autistics and ADHDers to develop pride in these identities and to learn to work with, rather than against, the ways their brains and bodies function.

This has led some, including myself, to wonder “am I Autistic?” “Am I ADHD?” “Could this help explain my pain and suffering?” “I want my disorder to really be my superpower- hidden just underneath the disabling symptoms.” “If I can heal my trauma and develop subculture support then my superpower can truly shine.” Alas, the online self-assessments tell me I am not quite Autistic or ADHD enough. Yet, I am certainly not neurotypical. Where is this neurodiversity affirming lens when it comes to other DSM-5 diagnoses? I have not found much out there with this lens. How can someone with depression, for instance, say this is their superpower when the symptoms are all painful and disabling? How can there be a strength-based neurodivergence underneath all of the pain? I am excited to explore these questions with you all further in future blog posts.