Neurodiversity is the broad sociological concept, introduced by Judy Singer in 1998, that describes the natural variety of human neurological functioning, including both majority and minority profiles.
The concept is based on the idea that neurological differences are an integral part of human diversity, just like cultural, linguistic, or physical differences. It views variations in brain development and functioning as natural forms of diversity rather than deficits that must systematically be corrected.
The neurodiversity approach does not deny the difficulties or disabilities that some people may experience. It does, however, encourage recognition of their skills, strengths, and specific needs while promoting adaptation of the environment rather than expecting only the individual to adapt.
Neurodiversity encompasses all neurological profiles, including both neurotypical and neurodivergent people.
Neurotypicality describes a person whose neurological and cognitive functioning broadly corresponds to the norms considered typical in a given society.
The term is used for individuals who do not display characteristics associated with the main forms of neurodivergence, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or certain specific learning disorders.
Neurotypicality represents the majority profile within the population. Neurotypical people generally develop communication, learning, attention, and social-interaction skills in line with the expectations commonly observed for their age and cultural context.
However, being neurotypical does not mean having no difficulties, pronounced personality traits, or individual differences. Everyone has their own way of functioning, strengths, and vulnerabilities. The concept of neurotypicality primarily serves as a reference point for describing the diversity of human neurological functioning.
Neurodivergence is a broad, nonmedical term for any neurological functioning that differs from the statistical norm (neurotypicality). It encompasses both identified disorders and nonpathological profiles.
All neurodevelopmental disorders are forms of neurodivergence, but not all neurodivergence is a neurodevelopmental disorder.
Neurodivergence is an inclusive umbrella term covering approximately 20% of the population. It includes ASD, ADHD, “Dys” disorders and, depending on the approach, giftedness and high sensitivity.
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Neurodevelopmental disorders are first and foremost differences in neurological functioning, not diseases.
The DSM-5 defines neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) as a group of conditions that begin during the developmental period, typically early in life and often before a child enters elementary school.
They are characterized by developmental deficits that impair personal, social, academic, or occupational functioning.
NDDs include:
According to the French National Authority for Health (HAS), they affect between 5% and 15% of births in France.
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A society that accommodates only one way of functioning creates disability; an inclusive society enables everyone to fulfill their potential.
A neurodevelopmental disorder is not necessarily synonymous with inability.
Disability often arises from the interaction between a different cognitive profile and an environment designed for the majority. What causes the disability is therefore not necessarily neurodivergence itself, but the lack of suitable accommodations.
This perspective is part of an inclusive approach: recognizing and welcoming differences, whether cultural, religious, social, physical, sensory, or cognitive, rather than treating one way of functioning as “normal” and expecting everyone to conform to it.
The goal is not to make neurodivergent people more like everyone else, but to create environments that can accommodate the diversity of human profiles.
Neurodevelopmental disorders may also be associated with specific strengths and abilities that vary from person to person, including creativity, original thinking, the ability to hyperfocus, attention to detail, remarkable memory, visual-spatial reasoning, perseverance, in-depth analytical ability, and an aptitude for identifying patterns and innovative solutions.