ncreasingly, workplaces and those in education are trying to familiarize themselves with the term “neurodiversity.”
So, what exactly is it -- and why is it becoming a hot topic for many?
Below are five key questions in regards to neurodiversity, with insight from Dr. Susanne Bruyere, professor of disability studies in the Industrial Labor Relations School at Cornell University.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity is a concept all about differences in the brain, that cause people to interact with the world around them in a variety of ways.
It doesn’t necessarily refer to a deficit in brain function, just differences in the way people socialize, learn and perform various mental tasks.
Why has neurodiversity become such an important issue with educators and employers?
Bruyere said research done by Drexel University in 2015 showed that that young adults with autism have lower rates of employment than those with other disabilities, adding that those who are employed are in low-wage or part-time jobs.
But another wrinkle is that Bruyere said research in 2014 showed that 46% of autistic adults who are employed are overeducated or exceed the skill level needed for the roles they are in.
“This represents a significant proportion of young people who will need or are currently needing to be shepherded through higher education and on toward successful employment,” Bruyere said.
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