The term neurodivergence refers to people whose cognitive or behavioral functioning differs from what is considered typical. Although the concept has a sociocultural origin, it also has clinical applications. Let’s review its definition, the most frequent types, and how it can be assessed through normative studies.
References
What is neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence describes brain functioning that diverges from the statistical average. It is not a clinical diagnosis itself, but a concept that encompasses several neurodevelopmental conditions—such as autism or ADHD—as well as cognitive styles like high capacities or dyslexia. From a neuropsychological perspective, neurodivergence is understood in relation to normative studies, which establish average patterns of cognitive and behavioral performance. When a person’s results fall outside these parameters, we speak of a neurodivergent profile. The term emphasizes difference, not deficit, and allows us to describe atypical functioning without stigmatization. In clinical, educational, and workplace contexts, understanding neurodivergence is key to adjusting assessments, supports, and interventions to each individual profile.Types of neurodivergence
From a clinical perspective, the following are among the most recognized types of neurodivergence:Autism spectrum disorder
Autism is associated with differences in social communication, cognitive flexibility, and sensory processing. From the neurodivergent perspective, it is understood as a variation in brain development rather than a pathology.ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder involves challenges in sustained attention, response inhibition, and self-regulation. Many individuals with ADHD present a cognitive style that deviates significantly from the norm, but which can be adaptive in certain contexts.Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a neurodivergence that affects phonological processing and reading automatization. Although it is not always recognized as a formal neuropsychiatric diagnosis, many guidelines include it as a type of neurodivergence due to its persistent impact and the need for specific adaptations in educational and workplace settings.High capacities
High intellectual capacities are also considered part of the neurodivergent spectrum. Their detection requires a comprehensive evaluation of the cognitive profile, as asynchronous development, social or emotional difficulties, or attention challenges may often coexist.What are neurodivergent traits?
Neurodivergent traits vary greatly depending on the individual profile. Each type involves distinct manifestations across areas such as attention, language, memory, or executive functions. Some common traits include atypical cognitive styles, non-linear thinking, hyperfocus, or cognitive rigidity. In the case of high capacities, traits may include very high processing speed along with emotional or social mismatches. Clinically, these are not considered symptoms, but indicators of functioning that diverges from the average—often requiring adapted assessments and tailored support.How to give a neurodivergent diagnosis?
Diagnosing neurodivergence means identifying a cognitive profile that departs from normative expectations. The process starts with a detailed clinical assessment, including interviews, direct behavioral observation, and neuropsychological testing. The evaluation must rely on normative studies, which allow comparison of the person’s performance with that of a representative sample of the general population. This makes it possible to determine whether their functioning lies outside the expected range for their age group. It is also essential to consider the person’s subjective experience, as well as the functional impact of their differences. The diagnostic approach should be developmental, comprehensive, and adapted to the individual’s context—whether educational, workplace, or clinical.Neurodivergence assessment with Nesplora
Nesplora tools, such as Ice Cream or Aula, enable advanced neuropsychological assessment in virtual environments that simulate everyday situations. This increases ecological validity and helps identify cognitive patterns associated with neurodivergent profiles. The data obtained are interpreted against large normative samples, providing an objective, evidence-based foundation for diagnosis and decision-making.References
- Armstrong, T. (2012). El poder de la neurodiversidad. Barcelona: Editorial Paidós Ibérica.
- Palau-Baduell, M., Salvadó-Salvadó, B., Clofent-Torrentó, M., & Valls-Santasusana, A. (2012). Autismo y conectividad neural. Revista de Neurología, 54(1), 31–39.
- Martos-Pérez, J., & Paula-Pérez, I. (2011). Una aproximación a las funciones ejecutivas en el trastorno del espectro autista. Revista de Neurología, 52(1), 147–153.
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