From the course: Hiring and Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Defining neurodiversity

From the course: Hiring and Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace

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Defining neurodiversity

- I speak to many organizations all around the world. And when I talk about neurodiversity, most have never even heard of the word. So let's start there. Neurodiversity is an umbrella term for individuals who cognitively process differently than what society considers the norm. Neurodiversity doesn't discriminate based on color or gender, and symptoms can present at different stages in an individual's life. Now, Judy Singer coined this term in the late '90s, and it's not a diagnosis. It can be better described as a social movement, to view cognitive diversities from a strengths-based lens. So, why is it essential to understand neurodiversity? The World Health Organization reports 15% of humanity is living with a disability, and only a small fraction of organizations, less than 12%, are including this group in their diversity programs. We all feel the world shrinking, and the challenge we face is adapting to many identities. Color, religion, gender, and neurodiversity. So let's spend some more time talking about terminology. Terminology can get a little tricky, and is always changing. For this course, I'll refer to this group as neurodiversity. And as the individual, as a neurodivergent. I'll refer to those who are not neurodivergent as neuro typical. Keep in mind, there are arguments that there is no such thing as a typical brain, but we use that term to define people that would not traditionally fall under the neurodiversity umbrella. There isn't a predefined list of what falls under the umbrella, it is a personal decision to be recognized as neurodivergent. However, in this course, we'll focus on human resource knowledge and support of autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, and general learning differences. These groups make up a large portion of the population, and have many talents to lend to an organization. As an HR professional, you can guide your organization in learning how to hire, employ, and support this population to maximize this fantastic and talented workforce. Neurodiversity creates a new landscape of hiring and supporting employees. Human resource professionals can increase their competencies to support this group and educate the workforce to ensure inclusion for all types of mind. The world is ready to embrace neurodiversity. Neurodivergent people bring unique perspectives, solutions, and innovative ideas. Starting here is a great first step to embrace this population within your organization.

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