Beyond Buzzwords: Rethinking Our Neurodiversity Discourse

Jun 5, 2025

Emily Paige Ballou, an AEA stage manager and autistic advocate, dives deep into the nuances of neurodiversity. She discusses the inadequacies of current public discourse on autism, critiquing the oversimplified 'superpower' narrative. Emily emphasizes the importance of understanding both the strengths and challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. She also raises concerns about the implications of labels like Pathological Demand Avoidance, calling for a more thoughtful approach to support and identity in the neurodiversity conversation.

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INSIGHT

True Meaning of Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is based on biodiversity and highlights the need for diverse brains in society.
It’s often misused as a softer term for disability, missing its deeper meaning.

INSIGHT

Disability Is Part of Neurodiversity

Disability is an intrinsic part of human diversity alongside neurodivergence.
Strengths and challenges coexist; recognizing one doesn't negate the other.

INSIGHT

The Problem With "Superpower"

The "superpower" narrative oversimplifies and can mask real struggles.
Support must address disabilities just as much as strengths to be meaningful.

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Emily Kircher-Morris chats with Emily Paige Ballou about the need for a more nuanced conversation around identity and support for neurodivergent individuals. They talk about the social model of disability, and the implications of public discourse on autism. They also explore the superpower narrative, and the importance of understanding both strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. They touch on the cultural context of autism today, and critiques of the label of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA).

TAKEAWAYS

Neurodiversity is rooted in the concept of biodiversity.
The term neurodiversity is often misused in mainstream conversations.
Disability is an inherent part of human diversity.
The superpower narrative can overshadow the challenges of neurodivergence.
Support must address both strengths and disabilities.
The social model of disability is a useful framework but has limitations.
Identity-related statements can be problematic and oversimplified.
PDA may obscure underlying issues rather than clarify them.
Public discourse on autism is regressing in some areas.

Click here to join the Educator Hub! If you're a teacher, administrator, school counselor, or parent of a neurodivergent student, this community is where you can share, ask questions, and find training that will help you along your journey. Please come join us.

Emily Paige Ballou is an AEA stage manager specializing in new plays and musicals based in New York City. She is also the co-editor of Sincerely, Your Autistic Child: What People on the Autism Spectrum Wish Their Parents Knew about Growing Up, Acceptance, and Identity (Beacon Press), a collection of essays offering insights from autistic individuals on self-acceptance and advocacy.

Emily has contributed writing to Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism, OnStage Blog, and has forthcoming work in Champagne Room Journal. Beyond her work in theater and writing, she is an avid hiker and a devoted Kansas City Royals baseball fan. Her personal reflections and essays can be found on her blog, Chavisory's Notebook.

BACKGROUND READING

Emily’s blog, Instagram, BlueSky

The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you’re invited to join our Facebook Group. For more information go to www.NeurodiversityPodcast.com.