Neurodiversity and the benefits of autism

For someone who has been diagnosed with autism, there are many perceived challenges. However what are the many positives and benefits of this diagnosis? In an article published by Psychology today, they dive into explaining the many benefits of autism and how neurodiversity is associated with it. 

According to the article, neurodiversity is the thought that there is variation in brain function across the human population. These differences in brain function and thinking have been recorded for many years.. Most often these diagnoses are associated with ADHD and autism. This suggests that these variations within brain function are not due to faulty neural connectivity. However, the variations could potentially new connections within the brain.

Therefore, this idea shines a light on this neurodivergent population instead of viewing people’s differences in brain function in a negative way. The principle of neurodiversity embraces these neurological changes as a different and positive way of thinking and believing. 

Interestingly, the term, neurodiversity, was coined by an Australian sociologist named Judy Singer. She herself had autism.  In addition, neurodiversity is used primarily in discussion with autism but can be used in conversations around other cognitive disorders.

Not surprisingly, there are many benefits to thinking differently and by changing the way one looks at a problem. Those who are diagnosed with autism are able to think in a methodological way and fixate on patterns as well as systems. Therefore, by  providing a different view than others to a problem, they can ultimately come up with a solution through their thinking outside of the box. 

How many jobs can you think of that require an employee to think outside of the box or be methodical in their documentation or counting? Jobs such as software testing and quality control are great options with those diagnosed with high functioning autism as it highlights their strengths.   

Check out one of our previous posts on autism to find out more information. There we discuss language and understanding and how strong structural language skills can greatly benefit a child. 

If you are a teacher or a parent and want to learn more about this and how to work with those diagnosed with ASD, connect with Safe and Sound Therapeutics today! Learning what primary research is showing us as well as skill building based on the research will support the child so they can live their best life.