Maureen Dunne: The Neurodiversity Edge

Maureen Dunne is a cognitive scientist, neurodiversity expert, global keynote speaker, board director, and business leader with over two decades of experience helping organizations build thriving cultures. She has served as a Senior Advisor to some of the world’s top organization, including the LEGO Foundation, Cornell University, and Members of Congress. She is the author of The Neurodiversity Edge: The Essential Guide to Embracing Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Neurological Differences for Any Organization*.

We often don’t notice our deeply held biases — and there’s certainly bias against neurodiversity. In this conversation, Maureen and I discuss the research, mindsets, and contributions relevant to neurodiversity. Plus, how neurodiversity can provide an edge for almost every organization.

Key Points

• We often don’t see our deeply held biases. As one example, we assume that north is “up” on maps and globes, even though that’s only a construct.
• Research and estimates vary, but at least 20% of the population is neurodivergent.
• Divergent bees in hives find new sources of honey. Instead of viewing neurodivergence from a deficit-based perspective, use a strengths-based approach.
• Intellectual capability is entirely independent of having a neurodivergent profile.
• Rather than maintaining accommodations for “quirky people,” move towards a norm of universal accommodations that benefit the entire employee population.

Resources Mentioned

• The Neurodiversity Edge: The Essential Guide to Embracing Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Neurological Differences for Any Organization* by Maureen Dunne

Interview Notes

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