Read This First
Fancy seeing you here!
Hi!
Thanks for sneaking your way into this page. It shows that you're interested in getting extra information and that, I promise to give.
Think of this page as a glossary. But please let's not call it that!
"Glossary" is a weird-sounding word. It's a word trying really hard to sound like "groceries" and is failing miserably. On top of that, it's a bit too boring and a tad too serious. And this website aims for none of those qualities.
So I'm calling it the "Read this first" page.
This is a little corner where you get to know more about some of the terms, phrases and ideas that I keep alluding to in my writing.
So let's get to it!
Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity is a term coined by sociologist Judy Singer in 1996 to describe the diversity of human brains and minds, including those with neurodevelopmental differences. It challenges the idea that a neurotypical brain is the norm and emphasises the value of all neurotypes.
Neurodiverse
Neurodiverse is a term used to describe individuals who have a neurodevelopmental difference. It recognizes and celebrates the diversity of human brains and minds, including those that function differently from neurotypical brains. In essence, being neurodiverse means having a brain that operates in a unique way, often with strengths and challenges that differ from those of neurotypical individuals.
Neurotypical
Neurotypical is a term used to describe individuals who do not have a neurodevelopmental condition.
Neurodivergent
Neurodivergent is an adjective used to describe individuals who have a neurodevelopmental condition.
Neurodevelopmental conditions
Neurodevelopmental conditions are those that affect the brain's development and function. Examples include autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette syndrome.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
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A complex neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors.
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The first detailed description of autism was by Dr. Leo Kanner in 1943.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
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A neurodevelopmental condition formerly known as ADD and characterised by inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.
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The term "hyperkinetic syndrome" was first used in the 19th century to describe children with excessive energy and restlessness. ADHD was officially recognized as a distinct condition in the 1960s.
Dyslexia
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A learning disorder that primarily affects reading and writing. It can cause difficulties with decoding, fluency, comprehension, and spelling.
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The term "dyslexia" was first used in 1887 by Rudolf Berlin, a German ophthalmologist.
Dyspraxia
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A motor coordination disorder that affects planning, sequencing, and executing movements.
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The term "dyspraxia" was first used in the early 20th century by German neurologist Carl Wernicke.
Tourette Syndrome
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A neurological disorder characterized by tics, which are involuntary movements or sounds.
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The syndrome was first described by French neurologist Georges Gilles de la Tourette in 1885.
Other Neurodiverse Conditions
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Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): A condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information.
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Executive Function Disorder: A condition that affects the brain's ability to plan, organize, and regulate emotions.
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Visual Processing Disorder: A condition that affects how the brain processes visual information.
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Auditory Processing Disorder: A condition that affects how the brain processes auditory information.
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and there are many other neurodiverse conditions that may not be as widely recognised.
Neurodiversity acceptance
Neurodiversity acceptance refers to the practice of recognising and valuing the strengths and perspectives of neurodiverse individuals.
Neurodiversity inclusion
Neurodiversity acceptance refers to the practice of creating environments where neurodiverse individuals can thrive and contribute fully.
Click here to head back to the blog page for posts on these topics >