WE ROAR Magazine issue 04 - Magazine - Page 31
Are You Neurodivergent?
Labels can influence the paradigm through which
individuals view themselves. Let9s consider again
the neurodiversity paradigm. Neurodivergent is an
8opt-in9 label. It can be very affirming, but when
using it we need to remember this is a sociopolitical term, not to be mistaken for a medical
diagnosis.Anybody
can
call
themselves
8neurodivergent,9 if they understand they do not
have a 8typical9 brain, for whatever reason. And
yes, 8neurodivergent9 does includes people whose
neural pathways have been altered by mental
health conditions, accident, or brain injury.
Kassiane Asasumasu who coined the term
8neurodivergent9 has often clarified that it
explicitly includes mental health conditions and
is intended to be inclusive, not exclusive. Let9s
not gatekeep; 8neurodivergent9 is not a
diagnosis, so if an individual finds it helpful, then
they can use it, no questions asked.
Remember: Neurodivergent is a socio-political
term. One cannot be 8diagnosed with
neurodiversity9
or
8diagnosed
with
neurodivergence9, because that is muddling up
the medical model of disability with the social
model of disability, mixing the pathology
paradigm with the neurodiversity paradigm, and
does not make sense.
When Self-Identification is Misguided
8Ally9, however, is often wrongly self-identified.
The onus should be on the community you
support to decide whether they see you as their
ally, not on you.
Likewise, 8Leader9. While 8Manager9 is a job
function or job title, to become a leader, you
must inspire people to be led by you. Leadership
is identified by followers.
Superpower or Spiky Profile?
And do not get me started on neurodivergence
as a 8superpower9! Humans should not need
super strengths or extraordinary skills to be
considered valid, or valued, members of society.
Every individual has their strengths and
weakness,
and
inherent
worth.
The
neurodiversity movement is supposed to be a
social justice movement; it is not about
assigning monetary value to people, that is more
of a capitalist principle. Being particularly good
at some things and needing extra help with
other things is also known as having a 8spiky
profile9.
31
