All In: Neurodiversity in a University and Healthcare Environment

Roxboro House Roundtables

Neurodiversity, in the broadest sense of the term, refers to the diversity of human brains and minds While there is great variation in the way our brains think and process information, the current design of our environment and society often does not account for these differences. The Americans with Disabilities Act recognizes that we must create an environment that supports diversity in our physical bodies (mandating curb cuts, ramps, etc.); However, there are no similar regulations or guidelines to support a neurodiverse population. As such, our society requires individuals across the neurodiverse continuum to adapt to the environment as it is, rather than intentionally creating an environment to support a variety of human minds. Individuals with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder or others have greater diversity in the way their brains manage problem-solving, perspective taking, communication and/or processing what they hear, see and feel. This population is thought to represent 30-40% of the total population in the United States. During this round table, members from the university and health care will discuss perspectives on what it means to create accessibility and belonging for a neurodiverse society.