Employee Benefits of Neurodiversity

Support for neurodiversity at work can benefit everyone, including managers who may be neurodivergent themselves.

Studies show that organizations that hired neurodivergent workers attained improved overall employee morale and positive impacts on organizational culture. Many neurotypical workers appreciate learning about neurodiversity and experience pride in working at workplaces that embrace multiple ways to think, learn and perceive the world. This type of workplace culture helps them better understand and connect with their neurodivergent colleagues, as well as other coworkers, as collaborators and friends. Many best practices for working with people with disabilities in general can apply equally to working with neurodivergent people as well.

Likewise, neurodivergent workers can greatly benefit from their participation in a supportive workplace. Many neurodivergent people, including autistic people, share common experiences of discrimination and stigma in work settings. Supportive workplace policies can help address this stigma, especially when neurodivergent workers are actively included in efforts to improve disability employment.

In addition, neurodivergent workers report greater confidence and self-esteem when their job duties align well with their set of talents, strengths and skills—much like other workers. Workplace support may also help many neurodivergent people gain confidence in other areas, such as participating in their community activities and interpersonal relationships. Thus, providing needed access to workplace accommodations and supports can help drive this comfort and support retention of neurodivergent workers.