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Embracing neurodiversity means valuing and understanding the differences in us humans. It helps us to foster inclusive environments, and recognize the unique strengths that each individual brings to the world.
What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a term that recognizes the natural variation in human brains. It acknowledges that there's no single "normal" brain, but rather a wide spectrum of unique cognitive strengths and challenges that come with it. You can discover some neurodivergent conditions here!
Well… How do their minds work differently? We’ll discuss ADHD and the Autistic mind below.
Inside the brain of an ADHDer
ADHD is associated with weaker operation and form of the prefrontal cortex (PFC), which is located at the front of the brain and is responsible for functions like planning, decision-making, and impulse control. ADHDers also have a smaller cerebellum which is Located at the back of the brain. It is responsible for coordinating movement, balance, and posture.
The autistic brain.
Before we describe the function changes. Let’s clarify Brain Regions and Their Functions:-
Frontal Lobe: Located at the front of the brain, it's responsible for executive functions like planning, decision-making, and impulse control.
Temporal Lobe: Situated on the sides of the brain, it plays a role in language comprehension.
Basal Ganglia: Deep brain structures that help control movement, learning, and reward systems.
Amygdala & Hippocampus: Part of the limbic system, these structures are involved in emotion, memory, and learning.
Brainstem: Located at the base of the brain, it controls basic functions like breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Here is a picture that demonstrates the function changes in the autistic brain
Neurodivergent conditions’ effects
Difficulties with social interactions: Challenges understanding social cues, maintaining eye contact, or engaging in conversations like in Autism.
Academic difficulties: Struggles with reading, writing, or math, especially for conditions like in dyslexia and dysgraphia.
Hyperactivity: Excessive energy and difficulty sitting still, often associated with ADHD.
Repetitive behaviors: Engaging in repetitive actions or routines, common in conditions like ASD.
Some helpful accommodations for neurodivergent people:-
In Conclusion…
By understanding and embracing neurodiversity, we can create more inclusive and supportive environments for everyone. This involves challenging stereotypes, promoting awareness, and providing appropriate accommodations to help individuals with neurodivergent conditions thrive.
Reference list
Cleveland Clinic (2022). Basal ganglia: What it is, function & anatomy. [online] Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23962-basal-ganglia.Moskal,
Cleveland Clinic (2023). Temporal Lobe: What It Is, Function, Location & Damage. [online] Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/16799-temporal-lobe.
E. (2023). What does it mean to be neurodiverse in medicine? [online] Scope. Available at:
https://scopeblog.stanford.edu/2023/05/03/what-does-it-mean-to-be-neurodiverse-in-medicine/ [Accessed 11 Oct. 2024].
Neurodiversity (2024) Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neurodiversity (Accessed: 11 October 2024).
Phelps, E.A. (2004). Human emotion and memory: interactions of the amygdala and hippocampal complex. Current Opinion in Neurobiology, [online] 14(2), pp.198–202. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conb.2004.03.015.
Wikipedia Contributors (2019). Brainstem. [online] Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brainstem#Function.
Wikipedia Contributors (2019). Prefrontal cortex. [online] Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prefrontal_cortex.
Wikipedia Contributors (2019). Cerebellum. [online] Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cerebellum.
X (formerly Twitter). (2024). Available at: https://x.com/QScience/status/885106651166109696 [Accessed 11 Oct. 2024].
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