Neurodivergence explained: meaning, characteristics, examples

Not every brain works the same way. The term “neurodivergence” is based on a neurobiological model. It contends that different brains are inherently different in structure. But what exactly does the term “neurodivergent” mean? In simple terms, people are considered neurodivergent if they exhibit psychological or neurobiological characteristics that deviate from the norm. This means that their brain “works” a little differently, which can affect how they perceive, think and feel. But when it comes to neurodivergence, there is no clear-cut either/or. Rather, it is a spectrum that applies to some people more than others. 

The concept of neurodivergence does not divide these neurobiological characteristics into abnormal and healthy. Instead, it sees differing characteristics as a sign of natural diversity. The aim behind this approach is to promote social acceptance and break down prejudices. 

What does “neurodivergent” mean in practice? Because neurodivergent people process information and sensory inputs differently to other people, they experience their environment in their own unique way. This can be challenging, but it often brings with it special skills and perspectives. Around 15 to 20% of people have at least one form of neurodivergence. 

It is important to note that the term “neurodivergent” is not yet widely used in medicine and is rejected by some professionals. 

The signs of neurodivergence vary, depending on the form. However, neurodivergent individuals share some common symptoms:

• Sensory sensitivity: neurodivergent individuals are often highly sensitive to sensory stimuli. That includes sensitivity to light, touch or noise.
• Emotional sensitivity: neurodivergent individuals are easily stimulated emotionally and react with intense and strong emotions. As a result, they can sometimes feel overwhelmed by their feelings.
• Mental activity: in cases of neurodivergence, the brain is often extremely active. This can make it difficult for neurodivergent individuals to think in a structured way, to separate what’s important from what isn’t, and to prioritise their thoughts. They also find it difficult to make decisions and form clear opinions.
• Excessive or reduced attention: some neurodivergent people are very easily distracted. Others, on the other hand, are highly focused and find it difficult to shift their attention.
• Atypical communication: neurodivergent individuals communicate differently to the majority of people. For example, they be noticeably more or less talkative than others, avoid eye contact with their conversation partner, or take what they are saying literally.
• Changing or fixed interests: in many cases, neurodivergent individuals have rapidly changing interests. On the other hand, there are also individuals who have a very strong area of interest and a great deal of detailed knowledge. 
  

Although neurodivergent people may find these symptoms stressful, they also have many strengths. They think differently, often solve problems in creative ways and recognise patterns quickly. They also contribute new perspectives and ideas. This benefits society, as different ways of thinking complement and enrich one another. Some neurodivergent individuals are also able to perform well under time pressure and think analytically and with great attention to detail. These are aspects that can benefit employers, for example. 

It’s important to remember that just as there are differences in neurotypical individuals, neurodivergent people are also unique in their strengths and character traits. In addition to personal predisposition, the social environment and the level of encouragement and support are also important factors. 

Neurodivergence is not a medical condition in itself and is no substitute for a medical diagnosis.For example, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered a recognised developmental disorder in the medical sense, but within the concept of neurodivergence it is a neurobiological deviation from the norm. Nor does neurodivergence mean that a neurological examination will automatically reveal anomalies. Some neurodivergent people exhibit neurological anomalies, others do not. This is not a contradiction. 

The following examples illustrate some forms of neurodivergence. This list is not exhaustive.

ADHD, autism and neurodivergence 

People with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) or ASD (autism spectrum disorder) are considered neurodivergent. ADHD in adults and ADHD in adolescents and children can result in a range of primary symptoms, including inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. These vary in severity depending on the type of ADHD in question.

With autism spectrum disorder, too, symptoms vary depending on the form. However, there are three general signs: differences in social interaction, differences in communication, and a limited range of interests. Meltdowns are also common. These occur when autistic individuals are overwhelmed by sensory stimuli. Treatment for individuals with autism depends on the severity of their symptoms. Like neurodivergence, autism is a spectrum. 

High sensitivity

The term “high sensitivity” was coined by psychologist Elaine Aron. It describes people who perceive and process stimuli such as sounds, smells, moods or information particularly intensively. Is high sensitivity a form of neurodivergence? High sensitivity is often referred to in connection with neurodivergence. Unlike ADHD or autism, however, it is not a medically recognised diagnosis. Instead, it is regarded as a personality trait.

Giftedness

Giftedness is also often associated with neurodivergence. Highly gifted people often think very quickly, recognise connections early on and engage intensively with topics that interest them. Generally, a person is considered highly gifted if they have an IQ of at least 130. This applies to around 2 percent of the population. Many highly gifted people do not fit the “child prodigy” stereotype. For a long time, some may only notice that they think differently, get bored quickly or sometimes feel misunderstood. Without appropriate support they can become frustrated, under-stimulated or withdrawn.

Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia is a form of neurodivergence that affects numeracy. A person with dyscalculia has arithmetic skills below the average typical for their age group. They may also have an impaired visuo-spatial working memory. 

Dyslexia

Dyslexia also conforms to the concept of neurodivergence. This reading and spelling disorder is not caused by an intellectual impairment. Among the causes are neurological factors that disrupt the development of the language centre. Individuals with dyslexia read slowly and hesitantly. They also have difficulty recognising letter sequences and words. Their understanding of what they read may be limited. 

Dyspraxia

People with dyspraxia can find it hard to move smoothly. The brain plans an action, but the body has difficulty carrying it out. Individuals with motor dyspraxia are able to visualise a movement. However, they struggle to execute it. People with dyspraxia can find it difficult to move smoothly. The brain plans an action, but the body has difficulty carrying it out. Individuals with motor dyspraxia know how they wish to move. However, the body struggles to perform the movement. Ideational dyspraxia makes it difficult to even put the individual steps of an action in the right order.

Tourette’s syndrome

Tourette’s syndrome is another form of neurodivergence which sees the central nervous system sending out uncontrolled signals. This results in tics – sudden, repetitive movements or sounds. People with Tourette’s syndrome experience these tics and cannot actively control them.

There is no general diagnosis for neurodivergence. There is also no definitive, generally accepted or complete list of the forms of neurodivergence. Each source includes different manifestations and diagnoses. Specialists tend to identify specific conditions and disorders, such as ADHD, autism, Tourette’s syndrome or dyscalculia. Because neurodivergence is a spectrum that encompasses numerous disorders and symptoms, the diagnosis varies in each individual case. There are also differences that have no diagnostic significance, such as giftedness. 

Do you recognise any characteristics in yourself that are associated with neurodivergence? If so, it’s best to talk to your GP. The characteristics may be caused by a mental illness or disorder that requires treatment. In this case, your doctor will refer you to a specialist who will carry out tests specific to the suspected cause. 

Further diagnosis is especially important if you feel distress or develop comorbidities such as depression, compulsions or anxiety. 

The boundaries between neurotypical and neurodivergent are not always clear. However, the statement that ‘we are all a little bit neurodivergent’ is controversial from a professional point of view. Many experts and neurodivergent individuals themselves criticise this statement because it can play down the challenges – sometimes considerable – faced by people with ADHD or autism. So it would be better to say that many characteristics associated with neurodivergence occur in all humans to varying degrees. However, neurodivergence itself refers to a type of brain development or information processing that deviates significantly from the norm.

Thinking differently is part of human diversity. Neurodivergent people can enrich their environment with new perspectives and creative solutions. At the same time, they deserve support where they find day-to-day life a challenge. If you notice signs of neurodivergence that are having a negative impact on you, it’s best to talk to a doctor about it. This is usually the first step toward help.