Neurodiversity: Discovering the Extraordinary Gifts of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Brain Differences [Hardcover]

Ph.D. Thomas Armstrong PhD (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: May 25, 2010

A new term has emerged from the disability movement in the past decade to help change the way we think about neurological disorders: Neurodiversity.

ADHD. Dyslexia. Autism. The number of categories of illnesses listed by the American Psychiatric Association has tripled in the past fifty years. With so many people affected by our growing “culture of disabilities,” it no longer makes sense to hold on to the deficit-ridden idea of neuropsychological illness.

With the sensibility of Oliver Sacks and Kay Redfield Jamison, psychologist Thomas Armstrong offers a revolutionary perspective that reframes many neuropsychological disorders as part of the natural diversity of the human brain rather than as definitive illnesses. Neurodiversity emphasizes their positive dimensions, showing how people with ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other conditions have inherent evolutionary advantages that, matched with the appropriate environment or ecological niche, can help them achieve dignity and wholeness in their lives.

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Armstrong (7 Kinds of Smart), an educational consultant turned author, argues that there is no normal brain or normal mental capability and that we are making a serious mistake in assuming that the kinds of differences we see in people with conditions like autism or dyslexia involve only deficits. People with these conditions also have strengths, he emphasizes, and by focusing on these, rather than on the labels, we can find the modes of learning and living that can help them thrive. Focusing primarily on seven labels (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, intellectual disabilities, and schizophrenia), He offers some good teaching tips. Yet while claiming not to romanticize, say, depression, his conclusions fall too close, as when he writes, in some mood disorders, there may be a silver lining, citing how Jung and Beethoven found creativity in the depths of their depression. In equating anecdote with pattern, he strains credibility. Armstrong is strongest in emphasizing that a broader understanding of neurodiversity will generate more respect and better results for people with the conditions he discusses. (June)
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Review

Publishers Weekly, 4/26/10
“Armstrong, an educational consultant turned author, argues that there is no ‘normal’ brain or ‘normal’ mental capability and that we are making a serious mistake in assuming that the kinds of differences we see in people with conditions like autism or dyslexia involve only deficits...emphasizing that a broader understanding of neurodiversity will generate more respect and better results for people with the conditions he discusses.”

 

Times Higher Education Supplement (UK), 7/29/10

“This quietly spoken book is at its strongest when examining the ideology itself and outlining the arguments in its favour. It is sensible in examining how other cultures, past and present, have accepted forms of neurodiversity, and it is wise in its critique of the use of normative standardisations to identify objectives in education and society in general.”

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 288 pages
• Publisher: Da Capo Lifelong Books; 1 edition (May 25, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0738213543
• ISBN-13: 978-0738213545
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.3 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (11 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #120,711 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

I've been a writer and speaker for twenty-five years, focusing on the diversity of ways in which people learn and grow. I like to read (my favorite writer is Jorge Luis Borges), paint, meditate (I do mindfulness meditation), and play Scrabble (even though my wife usually beats me). I'm particularly excited about my new book (out in May 2010) called Neurodiversity: Discovering the Extraordinary Gifts of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Brain Differences. It suggests that we think about brain diversity in the same way we think about biodiversity and cultural diversity. I used to work as a learning disability specialist and was disheartened by the negative labels we throw at children. I believe we need to honor and celebrate the uniqueness of each learner. My book Neurodiversity focuses on the strengths and abilities of people with mental health labels, including autism, dyslexia, ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, and intellectual disabilities. I hope that you buy Neurodiversity, and tell other people about it!

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Give This Child A Voice, June 3, 2010

By 

Sandra C. Deeks (Sonoma County CA USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Neurodiversity: Discovering the Extraordinary Gifts of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Brain Differences (Hardcover)

Dr Armstrong, writing with great empathy, discusses the neurodiverse in our society. Having had vast experience in the education of those amongst us that have to deal with learning difficulties due to various conditions, he has approached these disorders with hope, and most importantly,a way to help. Developing a "niche" for them is the underlying theme of this important and timely book. A must read for all parents, educators and psychologists that want to help those of us that need it the most. Sandra C Deeks RN

9 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars "Neurodiversity" extraordinary and timely, May 28, 2010

By 

Marianne Russo - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Neurodiversity: Discovering the Extraordinary Gifts of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Brain Differences (Hardcover)

Dr Thomas Armstrong has revolutionized the way people will forever perceive neuropsychological disorders for adults and children in this extraordinary book. "Neurodiversity" is written with insight, compassion and knowledge through decades of experience in finding the gifts attributed to brain differences. Filled with scientific research and studies this book goes beyond the fact finding into the true core of neuropsychological disorders unlocking the door and giving the keys to the life without boundaries. The eight principles of neurodiversity based on a "Niche" construction leads to the path of creating lifestyles that will foster the gifts and assets of people with mental illness, leave behind the stigma and create a world of acceptance and the positive side of all humanity. Written with a realistic view of the suffering and pain brought by neuropsychological disorders, the author has tapped into the life changing effects of assistive technology, career paths and educational settings that will bring an awakening and hope to a new generation.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Where There Was Darkness, A Light, August 28, 2010

By 

Mark Gordon - See all my reviews

This review is from: Neurodiversity: Discovering the Extraordinary Gifts of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Brain Differences (Hardcover)

Ten years ago, when using Dr. Armstrong's 7 Kinds of Smart to teach my at-risk high school students, a truly extraordinary transformation occurred. Students, who had been mentally asleep, began to engage. They paid more and more attention in class as they learned about themselves and their newfound capabilities. It was revelatory. They no longer felt "stupid." They were finally being recognized. They could now take intellectual chances. They learned how to write clear and cogent essays by describing their "smarts." English became relevant.

7 Kinds of Smart became our textbook.

What Dr. Armstrong's work did for my at-risk teens, is, hopefully, taking place with Neurodiversity. Educators interacting with Special Ed children should be asking: "How do we guide these students to recognize their learning strengths?" Far too often these students are mentally drowning in labels and initials--where "lesser than" is a nightmarish mantra.

The importance of recognizing the talents of these children cannot be overestimated. If you have ever worked with a child who has academically given up, you know that there are very few things more dispiriting. Dr. Armstrong provides an antidote to this insanity through vital information, encouragement, and the techniques to recognize and celebrate these kids' talents. His Eight Principles of Neurodiversity should be a daily visual reminder to all who work in Special Education. I thought his insight on the importance of pattern recognition to be particularly salient. Seeing patterns makes life easier. And, those, who can assimilate information in such a fashion, make us all more aware.

And, I appreciate the examination of the Neurodiverse universe Dr. Armstrong presents where the challenges these kids face and present are not overlooked.

Colleges need to make this required reading for all future teachers. In an educational system gripped with rampant fear, where the joy of learning s may exist only as an afterthought, Dr Armstrong invites us onto an isle of wisdom.