Introduction

Ableism, frequently disguised as normalcy and conformity, permeates societal structures, subtly influencing and sometimes dictating interactions and expectations. Deeply ingrained norms and biases not only marginalize but also punish neurodivergents (NDs) who deviate from neurotypical (NT) standards by thinking, communicating, and behaving in ways considered unconventional. One notable manifestation of this is the Double Empathy Problem (DEP). Before we explore this concept further, let’s first define some key terms.

Understanding Ableist Terms and Concepts

To grasp the nuances of ableist oppression, it is crucial to understand several key terms:

• Neuronormativity: This refers to the belief that there is a single, correct form of neurological functioning, epitomized by the NT neurotype. It often results in the marginalization of NDs, as their ways of interacting and processing are seen as deviations from the norm.
• Neurosuperiority: The idea that the NT neurotype is inherently better than other neurotypes.
• Neuronegativity and Neuroinferiority: These terms describe a negative attitude toward NDs, portraying them in an undesirable light.
• Neuroentitlement: The assumption that everyone should naturally conform to NT cognitive and behavioral norms.
• Neuroconformity: The enforcement of NT norms, pressuring NDs to adapt to NT ways of thinking and behaving.
• Neuroprivilege: Privileges granted to individuals whose neurological makeup aligns with what is considered normative.

When NTs engage in behaviors like judgment, exclusion, or discrimination against NDs, they are acting from a place of neuroprivilege and enacting neuronormativity and neurosuperiority.

The Social Contract and Neurodivergence

The concept of the social contract, proposed by philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, suggests that society expects individuals to adhere to its norms from birth. For NDs, this often means an expectation to suppress their natural behaviors in favor of neuronormative ones. This expectation can lead to significant social and emotional difficulties for NDs as they navigate a world that does not cater to their needs or understand their perspectives.

The Negative Social Feedback Loop

When faced with NT criticism or misunderstanding, NDs may withdraw from social interactions, which decreases their opportunities to learn and adapt to NT norms. This withdrawal can limit their social practice, reducing their chances of integration and increasing feelings of isolation and resentment. Over time, this can exacerbate the challenges NDs face, creating a cycle of miscommunication and misunderstanding.

Exploring the Double Empathy Problem (DEP)

The DEP highlights the mutual communication challenges between NDs and NTs. While NDs may struggle with perspective-taking, known as mindblindness, NTs often face similar difficulties when trying to understand NDs. This reciprocal issue suggests that both groups contribute to communication breakdowns, although the burden often falls disproportionately on NDs to resolve these issues.

Throughout these interactions, NDs not only have to manage the immediate communication challenges but also wrestle with the internalized ableism that these situations often trigger. They may blame themselves for communication mishaps, adding to the emotional and cognitive load they carry.

Concluding Thoughts

For NDs, navigating a world steeped in neuronormative standards goes beyond coping with social exclusion or misunderstanding; it involves identifying and challenging the frameworks that perpetuate discrimination through the negative feedback loop and the double empathy problem.