Neurodiversity: Scientific Meaning and Concept

Questions and Answers

What is the main focus of the social model of disability?

Finding a cure for impairments

Normalizing neurological differences

Pathologizing individual dysfunctions

Removing social barriers that limit accessibility (correct)

What is the perspective expressed by Sue in the context of autism?

Denying the existence of autism as a disability

Acknowledging autism as a natural part of human diversity

Finding offensive those who don't want a cure (correct)

Seeking a cure for autism

What is the goal of the neurodiversity movement since the 1990s?

Pathologizing individual differences

Raising awareness and appreciation for the diversity in human cognition (correct)

Finding a cure for neurological disorders

Normalizing only high-functioning individuals

What is the perspective expressed by John in the context of autism?

Asserting that autism is a natural variation and not defective Signup and view all the answers

What is Judy Singer's perspective on neurological diversity?

It is a natural and healthy characteristic of the human species Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'neurodiversity' literally mean?

A blend of nervous system and diversity Signup and view all the answers

Which historical development has led to a growing recognition and acceptance of neurodiversity?

The rise of civil and human rights movements Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of this entry?

The neuroscientific perspective on neurodiversity Signup and view all the answers

What has provided a platform for marginalized voices and facilitated the dissemination of information about social inequalities?

The increasing interconnectedness of the world through the internet and social media Signup and view all the answers

What two approaches to disability do the social and medical models correspond to?

The opposite approaches Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Neurodiversity: Concept and Meaning

Neurodiversity is a combination of "neuro" (nervous system) and "diversity" (variety, e.g., various kinds or trait expressions measured in a sample)
The term suggests a quantitative, scientific meaning attached to a qualitative social concept

Historical Development and Research Progression

Historical developments have led to a transition in the conceptualization of human diversity
Growing recognition and acceptance of neurodiversity have emerged alongside research progression

Neuroscientific Perspective on Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity can be explored between/within individuals
There is evidence of neurodiversity in the brain
Evolutionary perspectives on neurodiversity exist
Neurodiversity can be examined in light of the medical and social models of disability

The medical model views disability as caused by individual dysfunction, requiring treatment or cure
The social model distinguishes between disabilities and impairments, focusing on social barriers that limit accessibility

Debates within the Neurodiversity Movement

Some argue for normalization and acceptance of neurological differences
Others seek acknowledgment of disability or illness related to neuronal atypicality
Debates surround what self-advocacy means and the aspired social and political outcomes

Key Figures and Perspectives

Judy Singer suggested that neurological diversity is a healthy and natural characteristic of the human species
Singer advocated for neurological differences being part of natural human diversity, rather than being pathologized
Sue, an individual with autism, expressed opposition to normalization, finding it offensive to suggest society should not look for a cure
John, an adult with autism, argued that asserting his differences, rather than defectiveness, is a healthier position to take

Description

Explore the concept of neurodiversity, its composition, and its possible meanings from a neuroscientific perspective. Learn about the historical developments that have led to our current understanding of neurodiversity.