The Normal and the Neurodivergent: Moving Past the Pathology Paradigm.

Abstract

Theories of neurodivergence which describe divergent neurotypes as pathological, that is, as stemming from a dysfunction, represent the status quo for many institutions and caregivers. I seek to disrupt the "pathology paradigm" through a critique of the relevant notions of "function" and "dysfunction" and an examination of some oppressive therapeutic interventions promoted by the pathology paradigm. I advance an alternative analysis of neurodivergence, the "lack of fit" analysis, which aims to examine the particular ways that neurodivergent people experience a lack of fit with their environments. The "lack of fit" analysis is intended to promote self-determination through the development of adaptive relationships and collaborative interventions.