Can the Neurodiversity Approach Apply to ADHD? Exploring the Lived Experience of ADHD as Neurodivergence

Abstract

Introduction:

Neurodiversity proponents claim ADHD is a value-neutral, minority neurotype subject to marginalization and discrimination. This paper explores, guided by lived-experiences it’s applicability to ADHD and contrasts it with the medical model and the overmedicalization critique. Here, ADHD is respectively considered as a deficit-to-be-cured or a societal problem compromising identity, fostering stigma and inducing medication use.

Methods:

We conducted a narrative review of in-depth interview studies with ADHD adolescents and adults focused on experiencing: core ADHD characteristics, disablement, diagnosis and medication and evaluated which approach to ADHD matches best the lived experience of ADHD.

Results:

In these lived experiences (1) ADHD characteristics are generally not experienced as universal deficits (2) disability primarily stems from an invalidating mismatch between the ADHD person and their neuronormative environment (3) the ADHD diagnostic label brings both beneficial and disadvantageous consequences and (4) using medication requires balancing its bodily and identity impact, while needing it to navigate unaccommodating environments and meeting self-determined goals.

Discussion:

We conclude that considering ADHD as mere difference instead of as a universal deficit reflects people’s lived experience and eases the self-acceptance of an ADHD diagnosis. Also, conceiving of disability as a person-environment mismatch, rather than as purely individual nor as induced by labeling, provides a helpful framework for the balancing act of medication use. Since ADHD and autistic experiences don’t match entirely, we outline future debates among neurodiversity proponents. Overall, we believe the neurodiversity approach to ADHD is a promising and destigmatizing alternative inspiring new research, clinical and societal pathways.