Experts are sounding the alarm about the increasing use of the term 'neurodivergent.' British researchers believe this phrase is attributed to individuals without formal diagnoses, while it should only be used for those with real disorders like ADHD and autism.
Consequences of Misusing Terms
These experts have stated that this situation could lead to the loss of vital resources for vulnerable children in schools, as these resources may be allocated to individuals who do not have medical issues. This warning comes as experts are concerned about overdiagnosis and the medicalization of normal behaviors.
Increasing Trend of Diagnoses
ADHD diagnoses have reached their highest level in the UK, increasing twentyfold since the beginning of the 21st century. Additionally, autism cases in the UK increased by 787% between 1998 and 2018. Last month, Professor Dame Uta Frith, a pioneer in autism research, stated that 'anyone can be diagnosed with autism if they meet certain criteria.'
The term 'neurodivergent' is increasingly being used in social media and by celebrities. For example, television chef Jamie Oliver has stated that his family is 'very neurodivergent' and has referenced issues such as dyslexia, ADHD, and autism.
A new study conducted by psychiatric experts at the University of Southampton analyzed over 134 studies with about 150,000 participants. This study found that nearly 20 different conditions have been associated with this term, most of which include autism and ADHD.
These experts noted in a paper that the widespread use of this term is 'misleading' and can undermine the challenges faced by individuals living with real disorders. They also pointed out the existing errors in defining and applying these terms and emphasized that each disorder has its own specific features and clinical criteria.
Given these findings, experts have warned that using 'neurodivergent' as a general term could lead to misunderstandings of the specific challenges faced by individuals with various disorders.
