Neurodiversity Affirming Practices

Neurodiversity affirming practices are revolutionizing the way we understand and support neurodivergent individuals. By shifting the focus from “fixing” perceived deficits to celebrating differences, these practices empower individuals to thrive authentically in a variety of settings. Educators, therapists, and families play a pivotal role in fostering environments that respect and affirm neurological diversity, ensuring that neurodivergent individuals can participate fully in their communities.

You can download a FREE printable of 10 neurodiversity affirming Practices at the bottom of this post.

WHAT IS NEURODIVERSITY?

Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences, such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, are natural variations of the human brain. Rather than viewing these differences as deficits, neurodiversity emphasizes the value of diverse ways of thinking, learning, and interacting with the world.

The neurodiversity paradigm shifts away from deficit-focused models that seek to “normalize” neurodivergent individuals. Instead, it celebrates unique strengths and contributions, advocating for acceptance and inclusion. As Morrison et al. (2024) explain, neurodiversity reframes these conditions as part of the rich tapestry of human diversity, deserving of respect and adaptation​.

WHAT ARE NEURODIVERSITY AFFIRMING PRACTICES?

Neurodiversity affirming practices are strategies and approaches that honor the unique needs and preferences of neurodivergent individuals. These practices prioritize collaboration, respect individual identities, and aim to reduce barriers that hinder participation.

According to Dallman et al. (2022), these practices challenge the traditional emphasis on normalization. Instead, they promote environments that support self-expression, self-regulation, and empowerment. Affirming practices avoid imposing neurotypical standards, focusing instead on helping individuals thrive as their authentic selves​.

A key component of neurodiversity affirming practices is open and respectful communication with neurodivergent individuals. By engaging directly with them, we can understand their needs, preferences, and goals rather than making assumptions. Listening to their voices ensures that interventions and environments align with their lived experiences, fostering true inclusivity and empowerment.

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EXAMPLES OF NEURODIVERSITY AFFIRMING PRACTICES

Here are specific examples of neurodiverse affirming practices to help explain this approach further.

In the Classroom

• Non-Affirming Practice: Enforcing rigid participation rules, such as requiring eye contact during discussions.
• Affirming Practice: Allowing students to participate in ways that suit their comfort, such as listening without maintaining eye contact or using alternative forms of communication.

During Occupational Therapy

• Non-Affirming Practice: Setting goals to reduce stimming behaviors.
• Affirming Practice: Recognizing stimming as a valid self-regulation tool and integrating it into therapy when beneficial.

During Physical Therapy

• Non-Affirming Practice: Insisting on strict adherence to standard exercises without considering sensory or physical needs.
• Affirming Practice: Modifying activities to align with the individual’s strengths, interests, and preferences.

During Speech Therapy

• Non-Affirming Practice: Focusing exclusively on verbal communication.
• Affirming Practice: Supporting alternative communication methods, such as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, to facilitate meaningful interactions.

At Home

• Non-Affirming Practice: Imposing rigid schedules that leave no room for flexibility.
• Affirming Practice: Collaborating with neurodivergent individuals to create routines that respect their preferences and natural rhythms.

STEPS TO TAKE TO ENCOURAGE NEURODIVERSITY AFFIRMING PRACTICES

1. Educate Yourself and Others

Knowledge is the foundation of affirming practices. Understanding neurodiversity and listening to neurodivergent voices can help dismantle biases and foster inclusive environments.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Read materials authored by neurodivergent individuals.
  • Attend workshops on neurodiversity affirming approaches.
  • Share resources with peers and families.

2. Reflect on Personal Biases

Unconscious biases can hinder progress. Reflecting on how personal assumptions influence interactions is critical for promoting inclusivity.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Challenge traditional practices that prioritize neurotypical norms.
  • Use affirming language that respects identity and individuality.

3. Collaborate with Neurodivergent Individuals

Partnerships with neurodivergent individuals ensure their needs and preferences shape interventions and decisions.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Involve individuals in setting goals and planning supports.
  • Respect alternative communication styles and validate their importance.

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4. Adapt Environments

Reducing environmental barriers can create a more supportive space for participation and comfort.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Adjust sensory inputs such as lighting and noise levels.
  • Use visual aids or schedules to enhance predictability.

5. Shift Goals to Focus on Empowerment

Goals should prioritize self-confidence and participation over compliance with neurotypical norms.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Recognize behaviors like stimming as strengths rather than deficits.
  • Design interventions that build on individual strengths and aspirations.

6. Advocate for Systemic Change

Advocating for broader changes in policies and systems ensures long-term support for neurodivergent individuals.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Promote inclusive policies in schools and therapy settings.
  • Support research into neurodiversity affirming approaches.

7. Provide Ongoing Training and Support

Regular training and reflection help sustain progress and improve practices.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Offer professional development sessions.
  • Create peer-support networks for sharing strategies.

8. Monitor and Measure Progress

Continual assessment ensures practices remain effective and responsive.

• Actionable Steps:
  • Gather feedback from neurodivergent individuals and their families.
  • Use this feedback to refine strategies and environments.

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MORE INFORMATION

To dive deeper into related strategies, explore these resources:

• Just Right Challenge
• Zone of Proximal Development
• Scaffolding Functional Skills
• Communication Tips for School-Based Therapists

REFERENCES

Dallman, A. R., Williams, K. L., & Villa, L. (2022). Neurodiversity-affirming practices are a moral imperative for occupational therapy. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 10(2), 1-9.

Morrison, C., Cashin, A., & Foley, K. R. (2024). Daily living skill support for autistic people through a neurodiversity‐affirming practice lens. Australian occupational therapy journal.

Pantazakos, T., & Vanaken, G. J. (2023). Addressing the autism mental health crisis: the potential of phenomenology in neurodiversity-affirming clinical practices. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1225152.

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