Common Misconceptions About Neurodiversity

1. Neurodiversity is a disorder: This is simply a descriptive term that recognizes and celebrates the differences in the way people's brains work.

2. Neurodiversity is limited to Autism: While autism is one of the most well-known forms of neurodiversity, there are many other conditions that are considered part of the neurodiversity umbrella, such as ADHD, dyslexia, OCD, and Tourette's syndrome.

3. Neurodiversity is a new concept: The term neurodiversity has been around since the 1990s, but it has only recently gained mainstream attention and recognition.

4. Neurodiversity is a negative thing: Some people may view neurodiversity as a negative thing, but it is simply a neutral term that describes the natural variation in human brains.

5. Neurodivergent people can't function in society: This is a harmful stereotype that has been perpetuated in the media and in society, when in fact many neurodivergent people contribute greatly to society.

6. Neurodivergent people are all the same: This is another harmful stereotype, as each person has distinct lived experiences, strengths, and challenges.

7. Neurodivergent people need to be "fixed:" This is a dangerous misconception that has led to harmful and unnecessary treatments and therapies. Neurodivergent people do not need to be fixed, but rather accepted and supported.

8. Children outgrow Autism: Autism doesn't go away! That means Autistic children become Autistic adults, who had abundantly less support and funding.

9. Everyone has ADHD these days from technology: ADHD is a developmental disability, meaning it affects the way your brain developed and is not something that is acquired. Executive dysfunction and attention challenges can present "like ADHD," and technology can exacerbate ADHD symptoms, but technology cannot cause ADHD.

10. Autistic people cannot communicate: While Autistic folks often communicate differently than neurotypical folks, they can also be highly effective communicators, especially when communicating with other neurodivergent brains. Different not less.