Myth Busting Neurodiversity: “Everyone Is a Little Neurodivergent” 🔎

One of the most common myths about neurodiversity is the belief that

“Everyone is a little neurodivergent.”

While this statement is often well-intentioned, it can unintentionally minimise the experiences of neurodivergent individuals and create misunderstandings about what neurodivergence actually means.

Understanding the Difference ⚖️

It is true that everyone has unique strengths, challenges, preferences, and ways of thinking.

People may struggle with concentration, feel socially awkward in certain situations, or prefer routines from time to time.

However, having occasional experiences or traits associated with neurodivergence does not make someone neurodivergent.

Neurodivergence refers to natural differences in how the brain develops and functions.

These neurological differences can significantly influence how a person thinks, learns, processes information, communicates, and navigates daily life.

Conditions commonly included under the neurodivergent umbrella include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Tourette syndrome, and other neurodevelopmental differences.

Why This Myth Matters 💭

When people say, “everyone is a little neurodivergent,” they are often trying to express empathy or find common ground.

However, the phrase can unintentionally dismiss the significant impact that neurodivergence can have on education, employment, relationships, and everyday activities.

The difference is not simply the presence of certain traits.

Rather, it is the way those traits combine and affect a person's life.

For many neurodivergent people, these differences can shape how they experience the world around them.

What Does the Evidence Tell Us? 📚

Neurodivergence is not something that everyone experiences.

According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists in Scotland, neurodevelopmental conditions are estimated to affect around 10-15% of the Scottish population. [rcpsych.ac.uk]

This means that neurodivergence is relatively common, but it is not universal.

Recognising this distinction helps us better understand and support the diverse needs of individuals within our communities, workplaces, and educational settings.

Reframing the Conversation 🖼️

Instead of saying:

“Everyone is a little neurodivergent.”

Consider saying:

“Everyone is different, but neurodivergent people may experience the world in fundamentally different ways because of how their brains process information.”

This small shift acknowledges both human diversity and the unique experiences of neurodivergent individuals.

The Bottom Line 🗝️

Neurodivergence is not a personality trait, a preference, or a collection of quirks.

It refers to distinct neurological differences that shape how some people think, learn, communicate, and experience the world.

Understanding this distinction helps to build greater awareness, respect, and inclusion for neurodivergent people.

Myth: Everyone is a little neurodivergent.

Fact: Neurodivergence refers to distinct neurological differences that influence how some people think, learn, process information, communicate, and navigate daily life. An estimated 10-15% of the Scottish population is neurodivergent. [rcpsych.ac.uk]