Neurodiversity status
Why is being considered ‘Neurotypical’ seen as a privilege?
DEFINITION
Neurodiversity is defined as the range of differences in individual brain function and behavioural traits, regarded as part of the variation in the human population.
Why is being Neurotypical a privilege?
Someone within the ‘neurotypical’ range more readily meets expectations around how we learn, communicate, and problem-solve. Therefore, having a brain that works within this ‘neurotypical’ range is a privilege. Neurotypicals are likely to perform well in classical education systems and in the ‘ways of working’ society prioritises. Consequently, they do not face the same barriers, stigma or discrimination that a person who has a neurodistinct identity is likely to experience.
WHAT IS YOUR PRIVILEGE:
- I do not have additional hurdles to manage in my day-to-day life because of the way my brain is wired
- As a person within the neurotypical range, I do not face any stigma related to how my brain works, nor do I have to worry about this aspect in my personal or professional life.
- I do not have to disclose my neurodiversity status in either an educational or workplace setting. Nor do I have to ask for accommodations or additional considerations because I am neurotypical.
Stats Don’t Lie
- Neurodistinct people represent roughly 20% of the population, cutting across race, gender, age, and sexual orientation. Yet, unemployment rates for neurodistinct people run as high as 80% (Korn Ferry Institute, n.d.)
- A 2019 report on the digital and technology sector found that 39% of neurodistinct professionals had not disclosed at work. (BIMA, 2019)
- Neurodistinct professionals were found to have a much higher incidence of anxiety and depression, at 84% compared with 49% among their neurotypical colleagues. (BIMA, 2019)
Everyday Realities
Neurodiversity status
People who are neurotypical may benefit from environments, processes, and expectations that naturally align with their preferences and ways of working. In contrast, neurodivergent individuals may face barriers, misunderstandings, or feel pressure to mask aspects of themselves in order to fit in or avoid negative stereotypes.
Quiz
We have a short quiz and invite you to reflect on how neurodiversity may have shaped your own experiences, opportunities, and interactions on a daily basis.
