The Importance of Language & Fostering Neurodiversity
Language is more than just words; it's a powerful tool that we use every single day to shape how we understand ourselves and the world around us. The words we choose matter profoundly, in how we shape our self-perception and identity; and influence how others see us. No one understands that more than Sociologist Judy Singer, who coined the term in 1997 in her undergraduate thesis (Harris, 2023). Singer’s words gave life to a movement that has reframed the conversation.
We are ALL neurodiverse! We live under a very colorful umbrella of neurodiversity.
The term neurodiversity invites us to see neurological differences as natural variations in the human experience that should be celebrated.
The words we choose can either foster connection and inclusivity or perpetuate division and misunderstanding. Today we are going to talk about why language matters and how to foster neurodiversity.
So - let's get into this!
Why Language Matters
Self Perceptions
The words we use to describe ourselves have the power to shape our self-perception which directly influences how others perceive and ultimately behave towards us.
When we use specific language to describe ourselves, such as “I am neurodivergent”, “I am a person who lives with Autism”, or “I have ADD”, we are empowering ourselves. We own this piece of our identity and frame it with positive language that aligns with our individual personal experience within this vast sea of human experiences.
Shaping Perceptions
Historically, individuals with neurodivergent conditions have often faced discrimination and stigma. Choosing our words carefully helps combat this stigma and promotes a more equitable society.
The words we use to describe ourselves reverberate in the hearts and minds of those we interact with daily. They shape how we are seen, not merely as individuals but as neurodivergent beings contributing to our communities.
Fostering Neurodiversity
Celebrating differences is at the heart of fostering neurodiversity. It's about recognizing that diversity is not a problem to be solved but a gift to be celebrated.
It is moving away from the previous medical model of looking at physical and neuro diversities and moving towards a social model. The medical model looks at physical or neurological differences as something that exists solely within a person’s body, is perceived as something inferior, and needs to be fixed.
The social model looks at the daily challenges of individuals with physical or neurological differences NOT as something not to be fixed within a person, but as a failure of society to create a fully inclusive and accessible environment for all.
It reframes the conversation from 'fixing' to 'embracing.’
Examining how to foster neurodiversity through this lens is a call to courageously confront and dismantle the barriers that society has unwittingly built.
How do we do this?
✔ Challenging Stigma and Misunderstanding
We must be willing to challenge stereotypes and preconceptions. It requires us to be brave. We speak up and educate others, dismantling stereotypes and fostering empathy. It is recognizing that each person's journey is uniquely theirs.
✔ Choosing Inclusive Language
The use of outdated or stigmatizing language can perpetuate harmful stereotypes. By choosing inclusive language we challenge the societal norms that seek to categorize and exclude. We celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table.
✔ Promoting Self Acceptance
Self-acceptance is the cornerstone of fostering neurodiversity. It's about encouraging neurodivergent individuals to embrace their uniqueness and love themselves as they are.
✔ Creating Inclusive Spaces
Inclusivity is not just about inviting neurodivergent individuals to the table; it's about ensuring that the table is designed to accommodate their unique needs and strengths. Inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging.
✔ Educating & Raising Awareness
Education is a powerful tool for change. It's about sharing knowledge and stories to raise awareness about neurodiversity and promote understanding.
✔ Advocating
Advocacy means standing up for the rights and needs of neurodivergent individuals. It's about advocating for accommodations that allow them to thrive in education, workplaces, and society.
Embracing neurodiversity requires the courage to choose empathy, inclusivity, and language that respects the inherent value of every individual. It is through our words and actions that we build a more compassionate and understanding world where neurodivergent voices are not just heard but celebrated.
References
Harris, J. (2023). The mother of neurodiversity: How Judy Singer changed the world. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/05/the-mother-of-neurodiversity-how-judy-singer-changed-the-world
