What is Neurodivergence?

Neurodivergence is an umbrella term used to describe any type of brain that functions differently from what most humans experience. Since it is an umbrella term, it actually refers to many unique labels.

Examples of neurodivergence include but are not limited to:

• Autism
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
• Dyslexia
• Down Syndrome
• PTSD
• Synthesia
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

As you can see, neurodivergence includes a broad spectrum of differences. Based on the average number of neurodivergent people in the population (one in six), you know people who are neurodivergent in your immediate circle.

Referring to Neurodivergent People

Each person who falls under the neurodivergent umbrella has a preference for how you talk about their brain. It’s best to ask them what they prefer when they choose to disclose their diagnosis to you.

Adults often choose to view their neurodivergence as an integral part of who they are, which is why some genuinely prefer to be referred to as “Autistic” or “AuDHDer” (a combined term for autism and ADHD). Others prefer to de-emphasize their neurodivergence, so they might prefer “person with OCD” or “person with autism.”

Neurodivergent, neurodiversity, and similar words are generally used in positive contexts. Additionally, the use of functioning labels (such as low or high functioning) is not considered appropriate since it minimizes how people experience different areas of their lives.

The opposite of neurodivergent is neurotypical.

Creating an Accessible Environment for Neurodivergent People

Setting Expectations

When creating any kind of event, presenting a loose schedule and details about the venue can help neurodivergent people immensely. Knowing what to expect and what to prepare for is comforting, even if they’ve been to events before.

An example chapter meeting might include:

Venue: Mary’s Diner, 123 Maple Street, Any Town

Dress: Star Trek uniforms or smart casual

• 7 to 7:30 pm – Arrival and potluck dessert
• 7:30 to 8 pm – Ship’s business
  • Awards
  • Upcoming events
  • STARFLEET News
• 8 to 9 pm – Social hour

Communication Formats

Neurodivergent people are individuals, so what works for them in terms of communication may vary. However, generally it’s best to include at least two different options when doing a live event, one spoken and one written.

Written communication does not have to be complicated. It can be as simple as a printed copy of the meeting agenda left on an entry table. Other options include having a designated meeting minute taker who then publishes those or writing on a whiteboard as you conduct the meeting.

Spoken communication should be clear, at an appropriate volume, and done with minimal echo. This type of public speaking can take practice, but it is beneficial if all ship members can understand the communication anyway.

Providing Session Markers

Many types of neurodivergence include a difficulty with concentration or focus. When possible, this can be addressed by providing clear segment breaks in your communication (like the headers do on this page), so someone can rejoin the meeting without confusion when their focus wanders.

Sensory Input Levels

Sensory simply refers to sensations perceived through the senses, such as the softness of carpet or the volume of a bird call. Neurodivergent people often have different levels of sensory needs, and many find the typical level of sensory input in public environments overwhelming.

When possible, it’s best to choose venues without bright lights, echos, excess background noise, or crowds. Neurodivergent people can be more sensitive to temperature as well, so a heads up if a space is excessively warm or cold is helpful.

Sensory Regulating Accessories

Neurodivergent people have developed a variety of coping skills to handle what many environments hold. Sensory regulating devices such as headphones, earplugs, and special glasses (including sunglasses) are all common choices that should be welcome in STARFLEET spaces.

Sensory (fidget) toys are also helpful for many neurodivergent people and can improve their focus. As long as they are respectful, their use should be encouraged. Fidget spinners, fidget cubes, pen spinning, doodling, fiber arts like knitting, and many similar activities can be considered fidgets.

Some neurodivergent people also use clothing to regulate their sensory experience. People may choose clothes in their favorite textures to cover their skin to limit sensory input from furniture, for example. Available Star Trek uniforms may not meet these needs, so their wear should never be mandated.

Decompression Zones

Commonly referred to as quiet zones, decompression zones are good for a variety of differences, not just neurodivergent people. Their use should be encouraged for everyone who might need a break during an event. A decompression zone is a separate or divided space with soothing lighting, minimal noise, soft textures, and limited capacity.

Decompression spaces can be as simple as designating a nearby room or adding room dividers to part of the space. More in-depth decompression zone planning may be necessary for larger events.

Feel like this guide is missing something? Let us know at sfcoa@sfi.org.

Want to know more about accessible communication? Check out Accessible Communication 101.