OCD

What Does it Mean to Be Neurodivergent?

Tammette Chitwood

When people hear the word neurodivergent initially they think of autism spectrum disorder, a neurological condition characterized by differences in social communication, as well as, sensory-motor behaviors that may be restricted or repetitive. While ASD is one of the primary diagnoses of neurodivergent persons, it is not the only one. ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia, and other developmental conditions also fall under the neurological conditions that an individual is born with. The term “neurodivergent” is used to describe normal and naturally occurring differences in the brain that can present in both challenging and positive ways. An individual who is considered neurodiverse exhibits behaviors, learning, and thought patterns that are outside of...