When discussing neurodiversity there are some key terms that will come up:
Jack holding his favorite neuro-affirming books
Neurotypical: refers to having a brain that does not differ from the norm, or what society deems as typical.
Neurodiversity: an umbrella term used to describe the natural diversity of human brains – that brains are not identical.
Neurodivergent: means having a brain that diverges from what is considered neurotypical.
Neurodiversity-affirming practice is the idea that neurodivergent people may have differences in their abilities and how they interact with the world around them, however these differences are not considered deficits that require fixing. Rather, it’s that neurodivergent people may require some extra support or accommodations to live happily in a world that wasn’t built for them.
Neurodiversity-affirming practice promotes:
Authentic discovery and expression of who you are
Developing authentic relationships
Increasing understanding of your needs and ability to advocate for these
Increased self-esteem and mental health
A more inclusive society
Historically, behavioural interventions were the main way of supporting neurodivergent people. This may look like someone being educated to mask their emotions and behaviours so that they can fit in with neurotypical norms. For example, someone who may flap their arms if excited (stimming) would be trained to stop doing this behaviour as it is not a neurotypical behaviour. Or, someone may be told to remove their headphones in the classroom even though headphones may be helping them with their learning.
Neurodiversity-affirming practice is therefore being supported by the neurodivergent community and emerging evidence. Autistic adults who received behavioural intervention (i.e Applied Behaviour Analysis) have told us that deficit-based approaches have been harmful and lead to poor mental health. Autism CRC have also strongly recommended that autistic people have supports that are neurodiversity affirming, within their recently published National Guidelines for Supporting Autistic Children.
At Geronimo, we provide neuro-affirming support by:
Understanding and respecting neurodivergent communication styles.
Seeking to understand the needs of neurodivergent people from their perspective and adapting the environment to meet their needs.
Understanding and accommodating sensory needs.
Validating feelings, helping people recognise their triggers, and assisting in identifying calming strategies.
Encouraging safe self-regulating strategies including stimming.
Recognising the need for processing time and safe spaces.
Assisting people in developing self-advocacy and problem-solving skills.
If you would like to learn more we recommend these resources and services:
Yellow Lady Bugs: Autistic led and neuroaffirming organisation that provides resources and an annual conference on supporting neurodivergent girls, women, and gender diverse people.
https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/
Onwards and Upwards Psychology: Neurodivergent psychologist who has developed books, resources, and training to support neurodivergent people and their families.
https://www.onwardsandupwardspsychology.com.au/
Reframing Autism: Autistic led charity , reframing the understanding of autism through education, resources and research, underpinned by the lived experience of the autistic community
https://reframingautism.org.au/
Written by Jack Rule, Occupational Therapist, Geelong