2. The Challenge of Neurodiversity

The neurodiversity movement emerged in the 1990s challenging the idea that conditions such as ADHD and Autism were diseases that need to be cured, and raising awareness of the unique strengths that can be associated with brains that are wired differently. The movement has impacted the self-perception of individuals with these conditions and in the case of autism prompted use of identity-first language. The Neurodiversity Movement has led to online advocacy for ‘nothing about us without us’, and a culture recognizing that the atypical brain is  not necessarily something requiring a ‘cure’. This has impacted clinical practice to promote strength- based approaches. Good care builds acceptance while also providing relief of suffering. From the neurodiverse perspective, ‘Neurotypical Syndrome’ might be characterized by preoccupation with social concerns, delusions of superiority, and obsession with conformity. Neurodiversity affirms that ADHD can be associated with curiosity, creativity, energy, persistence, comfort with chaos, and spontaneity. Autism can be associated with visual awareness, memory, ability to see unusual associations, intense interests, the capacity to challenge social norms, transparent social interactions, and tenacity. Our search for self-awareness requires us to explore both our typicality and our diversity in celebrating our successes as we struggle with our challenges.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

1. Describe the history, factions and controversies associated with the neurodiversity movement.
2. Recognize some of the unique strengths associated with ADHD and Autism.
3. Build a strength-based clinical approach to working with neurodiversity.
4. Examine brain-based approaches to both neurodiversity and neuroplasticity.
5. Adapt therapeutic strategies to include restructuring a patient’s environment to optimize their success.

CADDRA – Canadian ADHD Resource Alliance has been approved by the College of Family Physicians, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the Canadian Psychological Association to offer 1.25 continuing education credits for this session.  CADDRA maintains responsibility for the program.

Participation in a discussion forum is required to claim full credits.