What is neurodivergence?
An examination of what we mean when we talk about neurodiversity, neurodivergence and the models of disability that underpin our thinking.
Deb Solomon and Jenni Guthrie (Chair and Deputy Chair of the BASW Neurodivergent Social Workers Special Interest Group) examine what we mean when we talk about neurodiversity and neurodivergence, as well as the models of disability that underpin our current thinking.
Talking points
This video looks at:
- What we mean by neurodiversity and neurodivergence.
- Models of disability.
- The Neurodiversity Paradigm (in which different ways our brains are wired is valued and not seen as a deficit).
Length: 6 minutes
Reflective questions
Consider examples from your own organisations and practice:
- What is your response to these definitions of neurodiversity and neurodivergence? Did anything surprise or challenge you?
- What would you do differently if you are considering the Social Model of Disability when working with neurodivergent peers?
Resources mentioned in this video
- Walker, N (2021) Neuroqueer Heresies: Notes on the Neurodiversity Paradigm, Autistic Empowerment, and Postnormal Possibilities. 1st ed. Fort Worth, TX: Autonomous Press.
Professional Standards
PQS:KSS - Organisational context | Developing excellent practitioners | Designing a system to support effective practice | Organisational context | Developing confident and capable social workers
CQC - Well-led
PCF - Diversity and equality
RCOT - Support development
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