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Understanding Gifted Neurodivergent Adults
Neurodivergent Teachers
Teach with ND writes and shares material for teachers who identify as neurodivergent (ND). This post speaks to a larger audience and serves as context for future teacher-centric posts.
The information is relevant for gifted neurodivergent teachers as well as parents, and any other career professional.
Defining Neurodivergence and Giftedness
Neurodivergence refers to individuals whose brain functions differently from the norm, including but not limited to individuals with ADHD, autism, SPD, and dyslexia.
Giftedness, on the other hand, refers to individuals with exceptional cognitive abilities in one or more areas, often measured by IQ scores.
For gifted neurodivergent adults, their cognitive abilities and unique brain structure can lead to a range of experiences and challenges.
They may struggle with executive functioning, social skills, and sensory processing while excelling in areas such as creative problem-solving and critical thinking.
While as gifted children their uniqueness might have been dismissed as quirky, as adults there are different ways the traits affect their lives in more obvious ways.
For those of you who were late-diagnosed, it can take an especially long time to come to grips with all of it.
Disclaimer: This is educational content only. Please, consult with a licensed mental health professional for personal medical matters.
The Intersection of High IQ and Neurodiversity
The intersection of high IQ and neurodiversity can result in a complex and nuanced experience for gifted neurodivergent adults.
While their high IQ can lead to academic success and career achievements, their neurodivergent traits can make it difficult to navigate social situations and workplace environments.
Gifted neurodivergent adults may also face challenges in getting a proper diagnosis, as their exceptional cognitive abilities can mask their neurodivergent traits.
This can lead to a lack of understanding and support from others, including mental health professionals.
Understanding the unique experiences and challenges of gifted neurodivergent adults is essential for providing appropriate support and resources.
By recognizing and embracing neurodiversity, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society.
Challenges and Strengths
As a gifted and neurodivergent adult, you face unique challenges and possess distinct strengths. Understanding these challenges and strengths can help you navigate through life with greater ease and confidence.
Navigating Social and Emotional Challenges
One of the challenges that gifted and neurodivergent adults face is in social situations.
Gifted people tend to be highly sensitive, which while it has its perks, can also lead to difficulties in interactions.
Additionally, some may struggle with emotional regulation or even rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), leading to intense emotional experiences that can be difficult to manage.
However, it's important to recognize that gifted and neurodivergent adults also possess unique strengths in this area.
Many gifted individuals have high levels of emotional intelligence, allowing them to empathize on a profoundly deep level.
For teachers, this can be both a blessing and a curse. It can be even harder to shake off the heavy experiences students either experience at school or even share with you.
Cognitive Abilities and Overexcitabilities
Another area where gifted and neurodivergent adults face challenges and possess strengths is in cognitive abilities and overexcitabilities.
Gifted folks tend to have exceptional intellectual abilities, which can lead to feelings of isolation or boredom when not properly challenged.
The overexcitability comes from being especially receptive to external stimuli.
However, we may also possess passionate interests, which can lead to intense engagement with the world around us.
These hobbies or careers can contribute to sensitivity, intensity; or psychomotor, emotional, and intellectual overexcitability.
By harnessing these tendencies, you can tap into your unique strengths and passions.
Environmental Influences
Gifted neurodivergent adults are influenced by a variety of environmental factors throughout their lives.
These factors can either positively or negatively impact development and overall well-being.
In this section, we will explore the role of family, educators, workplace, and social environments in the lives of gifted neurodivergent adults.
As a gifted ND teacher, can you relate to any of this as being present your entire life? How does it present at work?
The Role of Family and Educators
Family and educators play a critical role in the lives of gifted neurodivergent adults.
A supportive and nurturing environment can help people reach their full potential. Parents of gifted neurodivergent children should be aware of their child's unique needs and provide appropriate support and resources.
Educators are in a prime location to provide critical supports, with support and involvement by other key stakeholders. We are acutely aware of the diverse needs of our students and provide accommodations and modifications to meet their needs.
(Teachers, if you’re reading, I’m preaching to the choir.)
Gifted neurodivergent adults who had supportive and nurturing relationships with their parents and educators are more likely to have positive outcomes in their personal and professional lives.
These relationships can also help develop a strong sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance, which is essential for overall well-being.
Instead of contributing to low self-esteem, a child develops into a happier, healthier adult.
Workplace and Social Environments
Workplace and social environments can also have a significant impact on the lives of gifted neurodivergent adults.
As you know, people may face challenges in the workplace whether it be due to ableism in general or more specific limitations.
Clearly, employers need to be aware of the diverse needs of their employees and provide accommodations and support to meet their needs. In schools, this means including teacher needs in addition to those of the student body.
In an educational setting, the notion of diversity should be expanded to include neurodiversity among other focal points.
Neurodivergent Conditions in Adults
If you are a gifted neurodivergent adult, you may experience challenges related to your unique brain wiring. Three common conditions that adults may experience are autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder (SPD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Autism Spectrum and Sensory Processing
Autism is a neurodivergent condition that affects how a person communicates, processes information, and relates to others.
Sensory processing differences is a common feature, wherein someone may experience hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity related to sensory input.
Some people may be hypersensitive to loud noises or bright lights, while others may be hyposensitive to touch or pain.
ADHD and Its Manifestations
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention regulation, hyperactivity, impulsivity and emotional regulation. In adults, ADHD may manifest as difficulty with organization, time management, and initiating or completing tasks.
Adults with ADHD may also struggle with setting healthy boundaries and maintaining relationships.
Overall, being neurodivergent as an adult can present unique challenges, but it is important to remember that we also have exceptional strengths and abilities that can be harnessed and celebrated.
As teachers or parents, you want to be able to model this self-acceptance for your students or children in order to be the best role model you can be. For those of us who were diagnosed later in life, wouldn't that have made a positive difference in your experiences growing up?
Developmental Aspects
Gifted and neurodivergent individuals have unique developmental aspects that require special attention and support.
Early identification and support are important to ensure that gifted neurodivergent individuals receive the appropriate education and support to meet their learning needs.
Lifelong development and growth are also important to help people reach their full potential.
Early Identification and Support
Early identification is important to be able to provide the appropriate support and education.
Asynchrony, which is the uneven development of cognitive, emotional, and physical abilities, is a common characteristic. Asynchrony can lead to challenges in social interactions, emotional regulation, and academic performance.
Gifted neurodivergent individuals may also have unique learning needs that require specialized education and support.
For example, some folks may benefit from an accelerated curriculum in certain areas, or moving through the curriculum at a faster pace. Others may benefit from enrichment, which involves adding depth and complexity to the curriculum.
Neurodivergent adults, for example people with ADHD, often say they feel like they aren't performing at as high a standard as they could.
We have so much potential to excel in their strengths; it's a matter of managing and balancing out the more frustrating ‘growth areas’ to allow the other areas to shine.
Lifelong Development and Growth
Gifted adults may have unique interests and passions that require support and encouragement. They may also benefit from opportunities to develop their social and emotional skills.
As gifted neurodivergent people age, they may face new challenges and opportunities.
For example, we may need to navigate the workplace, develop new relationships, and pursue our passions (for real this time).
Women have the added complications of perimenopause, and later menopause, which often increases feelings of fatigue, brain fog, forgetfulness, and physical discomfort in the form of hot flashes, sweating, and more. Aren’t we lucky?
As is often the case, much more research needs to be done in this area in order to best support women.
Developmental aspects are an important consideration for gifted neurodivergent individuals. Early identification and support can help ensure that you receive the appropriate education and support to meet your learning needs.
Lifelong development and growth can help you reach your full potential and continue to thrive throughout life.
Psychological and Emotional Well-being
Gifted neurodivergent adults may experience unique challenges related to our psychological and emotional well-being.
Being gifted and neurodivergent can lead to a range of experiences, including intense emotional processing, sensitivity, and perfectionism. It is not uncommon for gifted individuals to be misdiagnosed or not receive the appropriate treatment for their needs.
Mental Health Considerations
It is important for gifted neurodivergent adults to be aware of their mental health and seek appropriate treatment if necessary.
Some common mental health issues that may affect us include anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
However, it is important to note that not all gifted individuals will experience mental health issues and that giftedness is not a mental illness.
If you are experiencing mental health issues, it is important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. They can help you identify and manage your symptoms, develop healthy coping strategies, and provide support throughout the treatment process.
Counseling and Coaching Strategies
Counseling and coaching can be effective strategies for gifted neurodivergent adults seeking to improve their psychological and emotional well-being.
Counseling can help you explore and process your emotions, develop coping strategies, and improve your relationships with others. Coaching can help you identify and achieve your goals, develop your strengths, and improve your overall well-being.
When seeking counseling or coaching, it is important to find a qualified professional who has experience working with gifted adults and understands the unique challenges that you may face.
Look for someone who is knowledgeable about giftedness, is sensitive to your needs, and can provide you with the support and guidance you need to achieve your goals.
Intellectual and Creative Expression
Gifted neurodivergent adults have unique abilities and strengths that set you apart from the neurotypical population.
Intellectual curiosity, exceptional memory in certain contexts, and advanced language skills are just a few of the traits that gifted adults can possess.
These traits may enable you to excel in certain fields or engage in creative expression.
The Importance of Arts and Language
Gifted neurodivergent adults often have a deep appreciation for the arts, including music, visual arts, dance, drama, or writing. They may have a heightened sensitivity to aesthetic qualities and a unique ability to express themselves through creative means.
In addition to the arts, gifted neurodivergent adults may also excel in language.
They may have an advanced vocabulary and an ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. This skill can be applied in various fields, such as writing, journalism, and public speaking.
Autistic people can sometimes remember words people said and use them in the right context at a much later date (without necessarily understanding), as a result of echolalia.
Problem Solving and Creativity
Gifted neurodivergent adults can also have exceptional problem-solving skills and creativity.
Teachers, parents, and other adults often approach problems from unique angles and come up with innovative solutions. This skill is especially valuable in fields such as science, engineering, and technology.
You may also excel in entrepreneurship, where creativity and problem-solving are essential.
Overall, we have unique abilities that enable us to excel in various fields.
Engaging in creative expression, such as the arts, and utilizing problem-solving skills can enhance your well-being and lead to success in their chosen field.
A talent in music, for example, that is nurtured and developed can help level the social playing field, giving the neurodivergent person a way into new social circles.
Social and Community Engagement
Building connections and relationships and finding or creating support groups can help address social challenges.
Building Connections and Relationships
For many gifted neurodivergent adults, social skills can be a challenge. (To put it mildly, right?)
However, it is important to remember that building connections and relationships is something you can practice. You can work on improving your social skills by learning about active listening, asking open-ended questions, and showing genuine interest in others.
Learning how to manage the proverbial ‘mask' that you've been wearing takes time. But by connecting with other adults, you can begin the healing process.
Joining clubs or organizations that align with your interests and passions can provide opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and build connections.
Finding and Creating Support Groups
Support groups can be an excellent resource for gifted neurodivergent adults.
They provide a safe and supportive environment where people can share experiences and learn from others. There are many ways to find support groups, including online forums, webinars, and local meetups.
If you can't find a support group that meets your needs, consider creating one. This can be a great way to connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges.
Leadership can also play a key role in support groups. If you have experience or expertise in a particular area, consider taking on a leadership role within the group.
This can help you build valuable skills and provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Overall, social and community engagement can be challenging for gifted neurodivergent adults.
However, by building connections and relationships and finding and creating support groups, you can create your own pathway that feels both sustaining and authentic.
Theoretical Frameworks
Gifted neurodivergent adults have developed innovative theoretical frameworks and concepts to understand their own experiences.
These frameworks provide insight into the unique experiences of gifted individuals and can help researchers better understand and support this population.
Dabrowski's Theory of Positive Disintegration
One such framework is Dabrowski's Theory of Positive Disintegration. According to this theory, gifted individuals experience a heightened sensitivity and awareness, as well as responsiveness, to their environment.
This can lead to a sense of inner conflict and disintegration, which can ultimately result in a higher level of personal growth and development.
Gifted adults who experience positive disintegration often exhibit overexcitability, which is characterized by increased brain processing, receptivity, and behaviors for intellectual, emotional, sensory, creative, and motor functioning.
Studies have shown that gifted individuals have increased brain volumes, efficiency of processing in brain networks, and utilization of different brain networks.
Understanding Brain Maps and Neurological Research
Another framework to consider is the understanding of brain maps and neurological research.
Brain maps can help researchers understand how the brain processes information and how different areas of the brain are connected. This can help researchers better understand the unique cognitive and sensory experiences of gifted individuals.
Neurological research has also shown that there is greater variability among those who are neurodivergent.
This variability can lead to unique cognitive, sensory, and emotional experiences. Researchers can use this information to better understand the needs of gifted neurodivergent adults and develop more effective support strategies.
Unique Experiences of Gifted Neurodivergent Adults
Gifted neurodivergent adults have unique experiences that are different from those of neurotypical individuals.
Here are some of the experiences that you may encounter as a gifted neurodivergent adult.
Twice Exceptional (2e) Adults
Twice exceptional (2e) adults are gifted individuals who also have a learning disability or other neurodivergent condition.
As a 2e adult, you may have struggled with your learning disability throughout your life; but you may also have exceptional talents and abilities in other areas. This can create a sense of frustration as the gaps between skills can feel so staggering.
The Experience of Intense Inner Experiences
Gifted neurodivergent adults often experience intense inner experiences that can be overwhelming at times. You may feel deeply and intensely.
On the one hand, you may experience great joy and passion for the things you love. On the other hand, you may also experience intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger.
This can make it difficult to regulate your emotions and can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially if you feel misunderstood by social circles.
However, it's important to remember that you are not alone. There are many other gifted neurodivergent adults out there who share your experiences and can relate to what you are going through!
(For example, Teach with ND's community gets you!)
Gifted neurodivergent adults have unique experiences that are shaped by their exceptional abilities and neurodivergent conditions. By understanding these experiences, you can learn to better navigate the challenges that come with being gifted and neurodivergent.
Navigating Diagnosis and Misdiagnosis
If you are a gifted neurodivergent adult, navigating accurate diagnosis and potential misdiagnosis can be a challenging process. Here we will explore the complexity of accurate diagnosis and the consequences of misdiagnosis.
The Complexity of Accurate Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of neurodivergent conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and dyslexia can be a complex process. This is because these conditions can present differently in each individual, and there is often overlap between symptoms of different conditions.
Additionally, gender can play a role in the presentation of symptoms, which can lead to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis in certain populations. People socialized as women, for example, are more inclined to overcompensate with perfectionism in order to mask the difficulties they experience.
To ensure accurate diagnosis, it is important to seek out professionals who are knowledgeable about your specific condition(s) and can provide thorough assessments. This may involve seeking out specialists who have experience in diagnosing and treating neurodivergent individuals.
Consequences of Misdiagnosis
Misdiagnosis can have significant consequences for gifted neurodivergent adults. It can lead to a lack of appropriate support and accommodations, as well as negative self-perception and feelings of inadequacy or imposter syndrome. Misdiagnosis can also result in inappropriate treatment, which can be detrimental to an individual's mental health and well-being.
To avoid misdiagnosis, it is important to seek out professionals who have experience working with neurodivergent individuals and who are knowledgeable about the nuances of diagnosis. It is also important to be an advocate for yourself and to seek out second opinions if you are not convinced about a diagnosis or treatment plan.
Accurate diagnosis is crucial to ensuring that gifted neurodivergent adults receive appropriate support and accommodations. Seeking out knowledgeable professionals and being an advocate for yourself can help to navigate the complex process of diagnosis and ensure that you receive the support you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common traits of gifted adults?
Gifted adults often exhibit traits such as high intelligence, creativity, curiosity, and a deep passion for learning. They may have a strong sense of justice and be highly sensitive to the world around them. Gifted adults may also struggle with perfectionism, procrastination, and a fear of failure. Organizational challenges around managing time or paperwork, for example, are common.
How do gifted adults typically cope with social and emotional challenges?
Gifted adults may struggle with social and emotional challenges due to their heightened sensitivity and intense emotions. They may cope by seeking out intellectual stimulation, engaging in creative pursuits, or finding solace in nature. Some may also benefit from therapy or counseling to help navigate their emotions and relationships.
What are the indicators of being a neurodivergent adult?
Neurodivergent adults may exhibit traits such as difficulty with social communication, sensory processing issues, and atypical patterns of thinking and behavior. They may also have a strong focus on specific interests or topics, and struggle with executive functioning skills such as decision-making, prioritization, and time management.
Can a high IQ be considered a sign of neurodivergence?
While a high IQ is often associated with giftedness, it is not necessarily a sign of neurodivergence. Neurodivergent individuals may have average or above-average intelligence, but their atypical patterns of thinking and behavior set them apart from the neurotypical population.
What resources are available for gifted neurodivergent adults seeking support?
There are many resources available for gifted neurodivergent adults seeking support, including online communities, support groups, and therapy or counseling services. Additionally, many organizations and advocacy groups offer resources and support specifically for gifted and neurodivergent individuals.
How can gifted adults identify whether they are neurodivergent?
Gifted adults may identify as neurodivergent if they exhibit atypical patterns of thinking and behavior, struggle with social communication or sensory processing issues, or have a strong focus on specific interests or topics. However, it is important to seek out a professional diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider to accurately identify any neurodivergent traits.
For more tips on managing daily challenges as a neurodivergent teacher, read the Key Neurodivergent Teachers' Guide to Managing Daily Challenges round-up!
