The daily grind of managing a child with ADHD or autism can prevent us from seeing all the amazing and wonderful things about them. Devon MacEachron, PhD shares her perspective on NowThisOpinion on how the medical model has shaped how we think about neurodiversity:
She makes us think about important things like:
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Why are neurological conditions like ADHD and Autism considered to be DISabilities, DISfunction, and DISorders?
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People with ADHD and Autism bring depth and dimension to the diversity of our society which is just as important as biodiversity
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There are different kinds of diversity - neurological or brain differences should be respected
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Genes for autism and ADHD are not "errors"
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We can try and change our children or change the environment around them
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People with ADHD thrive in times of rapid change
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Having autism and ADHD is not easy but its time the world sees the beauty and value in brain difference
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Can we create a world where differences are celebrated?
The question that resonated the most with me is "Why should we fit into other peoples' ideas of normal?" - I dont think we should: BE YOUR OWN KIND OF NORMAL
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