Defining Neurodiversity and Identifying Neurominorities

In this opening chapter, the neurodiversity paradigm is defined and explained in the context of the macro-social and political changes that have taken place since the industrial revolution, and from its roots within disability rights activism in the late twentieth century. Key terms such as ‘neurodivergent’ are explained, as well as the definitions of the typically included neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia and dyspraxia. The inclusion of less well-known and more mental health-based conditions is discussed. The strengths associated with different conditions are signposted. Diagnostic disparities are discussed in some detail, referring to fluctuating identification pathways geographically and over time, but as well as demographically. The bias towards the white, western, male, middle-class and heterosexual ‘norm’ within diagnostic protocols is highlighted, which leads to significant under diagnosis and lack of early support for many neurodivergent employees. The chapter closes with the implications for consulting and applied psychologists, including the need for reflecting on our own biases, working respectfully with communities of lived experience and understanding the ambiguities related to the extent to which neurodivergence is included in disability legislation.