In the first post of this series, we covered the basics - what neurodiversity means and why it’s important. Now, let’s dive deeper into the traits and experiences that make neurodivergent individuals unique.
When we talk about neurodivergence, we’re referring to a spectrum of brain function that includes ADHD, autism, giftedness, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, and Tourette Syndrome.
Overlaps and Differences?
You might wonder, “How do these traits overlap, and how are they different?” Neurodivergent individuals often share some common characteristics, but the way these traits manifest can vary significantly from person to person.
For example, hyperfocus is a trait commonly associated with both ADHD and autism - when you’re deeply absorbed in something you’re passionate about, it’s as if time disappears. However, while someone with ADHD may hyperfocus intensely on one thing but find it hard to stay focused on other tasks, an autistic person might use hyperfocus to explore deep, specialized interests.
🧠 Giftedness brings its own set of challenges and strengths. Like dragons who hoard treasures, the mind of a gifted individual often fixates on knowledge and details, but this same intensity can sometimes make social interactions or transitions feel overwhelming. Many gifted individuals also identify with traits associated with autism or ADHD, making it hard to untangle one set of traits from the others.
Additionally, some individuals are considered Twice Exceptional (2e), meaning they are both gifted and another form of neurodivergent - for example, someone who is both gifted and has ADHD, autism, or dyslexia. These individuals experience the unique challenge of balancing extraordinary intellectual abilities with the struggles brought on by their neurodivergent traits.
A Thrice Exceptional (3e) individual may have three areas of exceptionality, such as giftedness, ADHD, and dyslexia, which further compounds both their strengths and challenges. These overlapping traits can create a complex experience, requiring tailored support in education and workplaces.
Here’s a snapshot of common traits across the different neurodivergent types:
ADHD 💚
Hyperfocus, impulsivity, procrastination, mood swings, restlessness, and difficulty with organization or time management. ADHD individuals may struggle with task-switching but often excel when working on tasks that stimulate them.
Autism 🔥
Sensory sensitivities (light, sound, touch), discomfort with changes in routine, a preference for deep focus on specialized interests, and difficulty with social interactions or transitions. Autism can also involve repetitive behaviors or stimming. Many autistic individuals experience hyperempathy, a real super power!
Giftedness 🧠
Rapid learning, high intellectual curiosity, intense focus, perfectionism, and a deep sense of justice or fairness. Gifted individuals may experience hyperconnectivity when learning, linking new knowledge to everything they know.
Dyslexia 🪽
Difficulty with reading, spelling, and interpreting written symbols. Dyslexia can also involve struggles with writing structure or following sequences, but individuals often excel in visual problem-solving and oral communication.
Dyspraxia 🧩
Challenges with coordination and fine motor skills, clumsiness, and difficulty with spatial awareness or planning. Dyspraxic individuals often experience fatigue due to the extra effort required for physical tasks. Hyperflexibility (when not in overdrive) can be a pretty cool trait to have!
Dyscalculia 🧮
Difficulty understanding math concepts, struggles with remembering numbers or sequences, and anxiety around math tasks. Dyscalculia can also impact spatial reasoning, but many individuals excel in visual reasoning.
Tourette Syndrome 🗣️
Involuntary motor or vocal tics, which can worsen with stress. Individuals with Tourette Syndrome often have co-occurring ADHD traits like hyperfocus yet may struggle with social interactions due to their tics.
❤️🔥 What Am I Missing?
As I dive deeper into this series, I want to make sure I’m covering everything that makes neurodivergence a beautifully diverse experience. Am I missing any important neurodivergent traits that should be highlighted? I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas on what else might be explored to make this conversation as rich and inclusive as possible!
Why Understanding These Differences Matters?
Recognizing the wide range of neurodivergent experiences is crucial for fostering inclusivity - both in schools and workplaces. By understanding that each person’s experience of neurodivergence is unique, we can create spaces where everyone’s strengths are acknowledged and supported.
After all, when dragons are free to use their unique powers, they can conquer the skies.
Stay tuned for future posts in this series. I’ll explore more about diagnosis, neurodiversity in engineering specifically, specific symptoms, what they looked like for me at home and work, and how environments can improve for all of us.
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Caveat: Neurodiversity exists on a spectrum, and no two experiences are the same. I am sharing my personal journey, but it’s important to remember that others may have different experiences. Additionally, my story is shaped not only by neurodiversity but also by childhood trauma, which can make it challenging to differentiate between the causes of certain symptoms. This is my truth, but it may not reflect the experience of others.
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