Moving toward transdiagnostic dimensional models of neurodiversity and mental health (and away from models of psychopathology).

Abstract

This article discusses the transdiagnostic dimensional models of neurodiversity and mental health. Moving toward transdiagnostic dimensional models of neurodiversity and mental health-rather than dimensional models of psychopathology-embraces neurodiversity as human diversity and destigmatizes neurodivergence. Individuals with neurodevelopmental conditions do not need to be "cured" of neurodivergence as pathology, but the inclusion of neurodevelopmental conditions in transdiagnostic dimensional models does recognize the high co-occurrence of different neurodevelopmental conditions with each other and with mental health concerns and increases access to appropriate and needed supports to improve well-being across the lifespan. Increasing recognition that neurodiversity is part of human diversity prompts reconsideration of the current dominant conceptualization of neurodivergence as inherently atypical or pathological. "Neurodiversity" refers to the tremendous range of possible variations in brain function, neurocognition, and behavior-no two brains or minds function in exactly the same way. "Neurodivergent," often contrasted with "neurotypical," refers to a brain or mind that functions in a way that deviates from culturally normative expectations. Neurodivergence may manifest in different ways and to varying degrees-and be more or less adaptive at different times, in different contexts, or from different perspectives. "Neurodevelopmental conditions" are characterized by neurodivergence, including early-arising differences that affect cognition, motor function, sensation, perception, and/or communication and are currently included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition in the "Neurodevelopmental Disorders" chapter. The authors propose a distinction between neurodevelopmental conditions and mental health conditions such that DSM neurodevelopmental disorders should no longer be subsumed under the mental disorder classification but instead reclassified alongside them, resulting in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Neurodevelopmental and Mental Disorders. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).