Misconceptions about being Neurodivergent can be insulting and dismissive of the profound impact it has on individuals.
In this episode, Jordan and Simon discuss various myths and misconceptions surrounding neurodivergent individuals, covering the difference between being neurodivergent and neurodiverse, why we are not all a little bit autistic, the misconception that neurodivergent people lack empathy and the idea that neurodivergence can be outgrown.
In this episode you can expect to learn about:
- Neurodivergent and neurodiversity are not the same. Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of thinking in all humans, while neurodivergent specifically refers to those who diverge from the neurotypical.
- Not all autistic individuals struggle with eye contact. Some may give fleeting eye contact or look at other parts of the face.
- Having friends does not disqualify someone from being autistic. Neurodivergent individuals, like everyone else, desire and benefit from social connections.
- It is incorrect to say that everyone is a little bit autistic or ADHD. Neurodivergence is a distinct neurotype that is different from neurotypical.
- Autism is not caused by diet or obesity. It is a neurodevelopmental condition with genetic and hereditary factors.
- ADHD is not solely characterized by external hyperactivity. It can also manifest as inattentiveness and distractibility.
- ADHD individuals often have an overactive brain, constantly processing thoughts and stimuli, which can lead to sensory overload and mental exhaustion. Misconceptions about neurodivergent conditions can be harmful and perpetuate stigma.
- Individuals with dyslexia face challenges with phonological dyslexia and the complexity of the English language.
- Neurodivergent individuals have an abundance of empathy and are not lacking in this area.
- OCD is a serious mental health condition that is not related to perfectionism.
00:00 Introduction
01:54 Neurodivergent vs. Neurodiversity
05:15 Autistic People and Eye Contact
09:41 Neurodivergent People Can Have Friends
12:23 Misinformation and Causes of Neurodivergence
22:23 ADHD and Misconceptions
28:35 Dyslexia and Misconceptions
39:00 Growing Out of ADHD
45:12 Misconceptions about Empathy
53:00 Myths and Facts about OCD
Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.
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