Neuroqueer

Neuroqueer is a term used by some people to describe the overlap between neurodivergence (such as autism, ADHD, or other non-neurotypical ways of thinking) and queer identity or experience. The concept is often linked to masking, or changing behavior to appear more “normal." This is a way in which queer people may self-police gender expression or behavior to avoid stigma. In addition to being an orientation, neuroqueer is often used as a framework or lens for understanding how neurodivergence and queerness shape identity, relationships, and self-expression. Not everyone who is neurodivergent or queer identifies as neuroqueer, and not everyone who engages in neuroqueering uses the term as an identity label. People who use neuroqueer may be talking about identity, practice, or worldview. It often refers to intentionally questioning or rejecting social norms about “normal” brains, (neuronormativity) as well as as norms around gender and sexuality (heteronormativity). Because these norms are closely linked, challenging one can also affect how a person relates to the other. Neuroqueering often involves adapting communication, relationships, or self-expression to suit one’s neurodivergent needs, rather than conforming to social expectations. Neuroqueer names the connection between neurodivergence and queerness, and the choice to live, relate, or express sexuality outside of “normal” cognitive and social scripts. ### Origins of the Term The term is often attributed to Nick Walker, an autistic scholar who began using it around 2008.