Understanding Neurodiversity
by Cindy Trivisonno
My intention as a neurodivergent designer is to strengthen and bring more unity to shared space, in both the physical and social realms, to be comfortable and empowering for everyone. I humbly come to this topic with the understanding that I have only experienced a fraction of the challenges that this community encounters, and I am actively challenging my own implicit biases.
With the goal of raising awareness through this introduction to neurodiversity, I have simplified many complex nuanced concepts. However, there are truly multitudes of expressions and experiences of neurodivergence, as well as a vast variety of terminology and personal preference for articulating the topic. I always welcome feedback and alternative perspectives.
What is Neurodiversity?
The Oxford English Dictionary defines neurodiversity as, “the range of differences in individual brain function and behavioral traits, regarded as the part of normal variation in the human population (used especially in the context of autistic spectrum disorders).”
Neurodiversity includes all of us. With an estimated 1 in 6 people experiencing neurodivergence—we are nearly always engaging a neurodiverse space. The neurodiversity movement recognizes and celebrates neuro-differences as an important aspect of a person’s identity on par with gender, sexuality, or ethnicity—rather than pathologizing individuals as being either abnormal or normal.
The spectrum of neurodiversity is an umbrella that unites the experiences of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Sensory Processing Disorder, and several other neurological conditions that share common traits. Commonalities include sensory sensitivity, irregular patterns of focus, varying communication and learning styles, and difficulty with time-management and adaptability. Co-occuring conditions are very common especially accompanying Autism, wherein 95% of autistic children have at least one other condition. ADHD + Autism is one of the most frequent co-occurrences. Below are some examples of neurodivergent conditions and their areas of difference.
Autism Spectrum. Social communication, restrictive and repetitive behaviors
ADHD. Attention, time management, executive function
Dyslexia. Reading, spelling, speech
Dyspraxia. Motor skills, balance, coordination
Dyscalculia. Number-related concepts
Dysgraphia. Writing, transcribing, drawing (motor skills)
Meares-Irlen Syndrome. Perceptual processing (visual information)
Hyperlexia. Reading superability
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Uncontrollable repetition of thoughts and/or actions
Synesthesia. Involuntary stimulation of senses
Epilepsy. Brain’s electrical activity, seizures, sensory disturbance
Sensory Processing Disorder. Processing and responding to sensory input (motor, behavioral)
Common co-occurrences with many of these conditions include: Depression, Anxiety, Sleep disorders, Gastrointestinal conditions
Understanding Barriers and Challenges at Work
In an immersive virtual reality video, the BBC Project CAPE (Creating a Positive Environment) simulates an office meeting experience from the perspective of a person with neurodivergent conditions. The video is rich with auditory and visual stimuli and contains the warning, “this video contains flashing lights / strobing effects.” The effects in this video touch on many of the differences and disabilities mentioned in the above list. Watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLyGuVTH8sA&t=67s (and don’t forget to pan around to see activity beyond the frame).
Many of these differences, in the right setting, can be expressed as talents or special skills. In highly unpredictable or social environments, neuro-differences can become substantial challenges and barriers. The workplace environment is one that can easily present obstacles. But if we understand how an individual’s experience is tied to their environment, we can unveil a myriad of opportunities and approaches to creating inclusive spaces.
Simple adjustments can improve the work environment for everyone, including neurotypical folks! Difficulties with focus or hypo-/hyper-sensitivity may involve physical accommodations such as noise-canceling headphones, dimmable lighting, quiet break rooms, or other desk area modifications. On the other hand, for challenges related to communication, different learning styles, time-management, or adaptability, we can learn tips for productive communication and how to offer support.
Embracing neurodiversity in the design process means being aware of these barriers and making decisions with accessibility in mind. Neuro-inclusive design is conscious of the many ways that people learn and process information, the effects of sensory input, and the importance of predictable structure.