The concept of neuroformativity has started to gain attention in recent years in both scientific and social spheres. It refers to the societal expectation or pressure for individuals to conform to certain norms and behaviors that are considered “normal” or “standard,” often marginalizing those who don’t fit this mold.
Much like how heteronormativity assumes heterosexuality as the default sexual orientation, neuroformativity assumes a default mode of brain functioning. This assumption can lead to the othering and discrimination of neurodivergent individuals, such as AuDHD, ADHD, and autistic people. As a result, they can be prevented from getting the support they need and recognized for their own individual skills and strengths.
Recent discussion of neuroformativity challenges long-held assumptions about neurological “normality” and advocates for a more inclusive understanding of human cognitive diversity. This concept challenges the traditional medical model, which often pathologizes neurological differences and instead promotes a more inclusive view of cognitive variations. To fully understand neuroformativity, this article will explore the fundamental concepts that underpin it, including neurodiversity, neurodivergence, and the spectrum of differences that exist. We’ll also discuss where neuroformativity can cause harm and how we can challenge it.
What Does Neurodiverse Mean?
Neurodiversity is a natural variation in human neurological functioning that encompasses a wide range of neurological conditions and cognitive styles. It’s an umbrella term used to describe individuals whose neurological functioning differs from what is considered “typical”. This can include autistic people, ADHDers, and those who experience neurological differences that may not fit neatly into any specific diagnostic category. We’ll focus on autism and ADHD in this article, as these are our specialties. However, know that neurodivergence also includes experiences such as OCD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, anxiety, and depression.
These neurological differences are not inherently negative or disordered but rather represent alternative ways of processing information and interacting with the world. Recognizing these variations as part of the natural spectrum of human neurology destigmatizes and validates the experiences of individuals who think, learn, and process information differently from the majority.
Neurodiverse covers all the naturally varying diversity within neurology, including “neurotypical” and “neurodivergent”.
What Does Neurotypical Mean?
The term “neurotypical” describes people whose neurological development and functioning align with what society considers “typical” or “normal.” Neurotypical adults generally do not experience significant challenges in areas such as social interaction, communication, or sensory processing that are often associated with neurodivergent conditions.
It’s important to note that the concept of neurotypicality is not without controversy. Many believe it reinforces a binary view of neurology and may oversimplify the complex spectrum of human cognitive functioning. Nevertheless, the term remains useful in discussions about neurodiversity and the experiences of those who don’t fit the neurotypical mold. It’s important to note that being neurotypical doesn’t imply superiority or that one is free from challenges. Rather, it suggests that these individuals generally navigate social, educational, and professional environments with relative ease, as these systems are often designed with neurotypical cognition in mind.
Neurotypical adults often take for granted certain abilities that may be more challenging for neurodivergent individuals. These can include:
- Intuitive understanding of social cues and norms
- Ability to filter out background sensory information
- Ease in transitioning between tasks or environments
- Consistent energy levels for social interaction
However, it’s crucial to recognize that neurotypicality exists on a spectrum, and many neurotypical adults may experience some traits associated with neurodivergence without meeting the threshold for a formal diagnosis.
Neurodiversity in Adults — Adult Autism and ADHD
While much of the research around neurodiversity has focused on children, particularly in educational settings, it’s important to recognize that neurodiversity in adults is equally important. Many neurodivergent people, including adults with ADHD and autism, have grown up without a formal diagnosis or understanding of their neurological differences. This can lead to challenges in various aspects of life, including employment, relationships, finance, and self-perception.
For adults, embracing neurodiversity can be a transformative experience. It can provide a framework for understanding lifelong struggles and differences and a sense of community and validation. Additionally, recognizing neurodiversity in the workplace can lead to more inclusive practices and better utilization of diverse cognitive strengths.
How Neuroformativity Shapes Our World
To fully appreciate the impact of neuroformativity on our society, it’s important to examine its core components. Neuroformativity, the implicit expectation that everyone should think and behave in a neurotypical manner, permeates various aspects of our daily lives. By breaking this concept down into key elements, we can better understand its far-reaching effects and identify areas where change is needed.
Neuroformativity manifests in different spheres, from broad societal expectations to specific institutional practices. These elements contribute to a system that often overlooks or undervalues neurodiversity, creating challenges for those whose cognitive processes differ from the presumed norm.
Here are some examples of neuroformativity as we most commonly see them:
1. Societal norms and expectations
Neuroformativity establishes and reinforces societal standards for “normal” behavior, communication, and social interaction based on neurotypical patterns. This creates pressure for neurodivergent individuals to conform and mask their neurodivergent behaviors or risk being seen as “different” or “problematic.” This masking can be exhausting and ultimately lead to burnout. It also can mean ADHD and autistic people feel like people don’t know the real them, especially when they mask differently around different people. This can lead to self-esteem issues as well as exacerbate other co-occurring mental health struggles.
2. Structural bias in institutions
Educational systems, workplaces, and social institutions are often designed with neurotypical individuals in mind. This structural bias can create unintentional barriers for neurodivergent people, limiting their access to opportunities and full participation in society. There’s often a lack of understanding and openness to discussing neurodivergence within institutions, meaning a neurodivergent employee or student can face extreme difficulties and slip through the cracks, thus losing opportunities, financial stability, and discrimination as a result.
3. Medicalization of neurodivergence
The tendency to view neurological differences through a medical lens, often pathologizing them as disorders to be treated or cured, is unfortunately very common, rather than recognizing neurodivergence as a natural variation in human neurology. This medical model can undermine the validity of autistic and ADHD experiences and identities.
4. Limited ADHD and autistic representation in media and culture
The portrayal of neurodivergent people in media and popular culture often relies on limited narratives and harmful stereotypes, such as autistic characters that lack empathy[1]. This narrow representation reinforces neuroformative norms and fails to capture the diverse realities of neurodivergent lives. This not only pushes harmful narratives but also means that many ADHD and autistic people don’t realize they’re neurodivergent because the representation doesn’t reflect their own experiences.
5. Normative communication expectations
The assumption that everyone communicates the same, typically in a neurotypical way, overlooks the diverse communication styles and needs of neurodivergent people. This can lead to misunderstandings and social barriers in various settings. There can also be differences in maintaining friendships and relationships that neurotypical norms don’t allow. This can mean many autistic and ADHD people feel abnormal, and they may experience isolation and loneliness. Especially if they’re unable to communicate these differences with someone who understands
6. Heteronormativity through neuronormativity
Neurodivergent individuals, particularly autistic people, have a higher likelihood of being part of the LGBTQ+ community. Because our society is both heteronormative as well as neuronormative, autistic LGBTQ+ people can face high rates of discrimination and violence[2]. This statistic only increases for those who are also in the BIPOC community. Rates of self-harm and suicide are also much higher for LGBTQ+ people who are neurodivergent. By dismantling these systems and embracing diversity in all its forms, life can be safer and more affirming for neurodivergent people of all genders and sexualities.
So, by examining these key aspects, we can begin to recognize the subtle yet powerful ways in which neuroformativity shapes our world. This understanding is essential for fostering a more inclusive society that embraces the full spectrum of neurological diversity.
Impacts of neuroformativity
The pervasive nature of neuroformativity has significant consequences for neurodivergent individuals and society as a whole. One of the most immediate impacts is the pressure many neurodivergent people feel to engage in masking and camouflaging behaviors. This involves suppressing their natural tendencies and adopting neurotypical mannerisms to fit in, often leading to severe stress and burnout. The constant effort to conform can be emotionally and physically exhausting, taking a toll on mental health and well-being.
Neuroformative environments also create unnecessary barriers to access in various spheres of life. Educational institutions, workplaces, and social settings designed with only neurotypical people in mind can inadvertently exclude or disadvantage those with different neurological profiles and limit opportunities for neurodivergent people.
The pressure to conform to neuroformative standards often results in significant mental health challenges for neurodivergent individuals. The constant struggle to meet societal expectations that may not align with one’s natural way of being can contribute to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. This emotional toll can have long-lasting effects on personal development and quality of life.
Perhaps one of the most significant impacts of neuroformativity is the missed opportunities it creates for society at large. When neurodivergent individuals are limited in their participation and recognition due to neuroformative expectations, society loses out on their unique perspectives, innovative thinking, and specialized skills. This loss of diverse cognitive input can hinder progress and creativity in various fields, from science and technology to arts and culture.
Challenging neuroformativity
A multifaceted approach is important to address the issues posed by neuroformativity. At the foundation of this approach is awareness and education. By increasing our understanding of neurodiversity and the harm caused by neuroformative assumptions, we can begin to shift societal perspectives. This education needs to reach all sectors of society, from schools and workplaces to healthcare providers and policymakers.
Inclusive design is another crucial element in challenging neuroformativity. This involves creating environments, systems, and technologies that accommodate diverse neurological needs. By considering a wide range of cognitive styles and sensory preferences in the design process, we can create spaces and tools that are accessible and comfortable for everyone, regardless of their neurological profile.
Representation plays a vital role in dismantling neuroformative norms. Promoting authentic representation of neurodivergent individuals in media, leadership roles, and decision-making processes helps to normalize neurodiversity and provides important role models. This representation should reflect the true diversity of neurodivergent experiences, avoiding stereotypes and showcasing the strengths and capabilities of neurodivergent individuals.
Policy changes are essential for institutionalizing support for neurodiversity. Advocating for policies that recognize and support neurodiversity in education, employment, and healthcare can create systemic change. This might include accommodations in educational settings, workplace protections, and healthcare practices that respect neurodivergent needs and experiences.
Finally, challenging neuroformativity involves actively celebrating neurodiversity. This means recognizing and valuing the strengths and contributions of neurodivergent individuals. By highlighting the unique perspectives and skills that neurodiversity brings to our communities, we can foster a culture of appreciation for cognitive differences. This celebration of neurodiversity not only benefits neurodivergent individuals but enriches society as a whole, promoting innovation, creativity, and a more inclusive world for everyone.
A Neurodivergent Specialized Therapist Can Help You Unpack the Damaging Effects of Neuronormativity
Neurodiversity doesn’t need to mean that you have to feel alone, limited, or powerless. The world can be yours to engage and contribute to in real and appreciable ways. The coping strategies adopted by autistic adults and ADHDers due to neuronormativity often do not work long-term and can be harmful, but there are safer and healthier ways to get the benefits that avoid emotional and physical risks. You need advocacy and people to help you employ systematic life and work strategies for the best and most positive life outcomes. Many neurodivergent people struggle with certain aspects of life because the world is not structured for them. A neurodivergent affirming therapist can help you find safe and effective strategies that make space for authenticity and autonomy.
If you’re seeking professional support from a neurodivergent specialist , message us to see how we can help or book a free 20-minute consultation call with Dr. Barajas or Dr. Goldman. If you’re looking for a neurodivergent-affirming adult ADHD and autism assessment, contact Dr. Lee.
[1] Autism Doesn’t Hold People Back At Work. Discrimination Does. Ludmilla N. Praslova.
[2] LGBTQIA+ and Autism. Autism Research Institute.