Is Calling Neurodivergence a “Superpower” Helpful or Harmful?

In conversations about neurodiversity, a phrase that often pops up is: “My neurodivergence is my superpower.” For some, this perspective is empowering, helping them embrace their differences with confidence. For others, however, it feels dismissive, minimizing the very real struggles that come with conditions like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other forms of neurodivergence.

So, is framing neurodivergence as a superpower a positive shift in mindset, or does it oversimplify the experience? Let’s explore both perspectives.

The Case for “Superpower” as an Empowering Term

Many neurodivergent individuals grow up feeling like they don’t fit the mold society expects. They may struggle in traditional school settings, in workplaces designed for neurotypical minds, or even in social situations where unspoken rules seem to come naturally to others. For those who have spent years feeling like something is wrong with them, reframing their neurodivergence as a superpower can be an act of self-love and empowerment.

Here’s why some people resonate with the term:

• It highlights strengths often overlooked. Many neurodivergent individuals have exceptional abilities in creativity, problem-solving, deep focus (hyperfocus), and thinking outside the box. Recognizing these traits as valuable can be life-changing.

• It helps reclaim identity. Instead of seeing ADHD, autism, or dyslexia as limitations, some prefer to see them as unique traits that make them who they are.

• It combats stigma. In a world that often pathologizes neurodivergence, calling it a superpower shifts the narrative from something “wrong” to something different, but equally valuable.

For these individuals, the term isn’t about denying challenges—it’s about changing the way they view themselves and how the world views them.

The Case Against

On the other side of the conversation, some neurodivergent people feel that the “superpower” label is oversimplified and even harmful. While it’s great to highlight strengths, neurodivergence also comes with real struggles that can’t always be turned into a positive spin.

Here’s why some people reject the term:

• It can feel dismissive of real difficulties. Many neurodivergent individuals face challenges with executive dysfunction, sensory sensitivities, social interactions, or emotional regulation. These struggles are valid and can’t always be reframed as strengths.

• It creates pressure to be exceptional. Not everyone with ADHD is a creative genius. Not every autistic person is a math whiz. The “superpower” narrative can make people feel like they need to compensate for their struggles by excelling in other areas.

• It can downplay the need for support. If neurodivergence is framed only as a gift, it might lead some to believe that accommodations, therapy, or medication aren’t necessary when, in reality, they can be life-changing.

For these individuals, true acceptance means embracing both the positives and negatives of their neurodivergence without needing to sugarcoat the struggles.

So, What’s the Right Perspective?

The truth is, there isn’t a right or wrong way to frame neurodivergence. It depends on the individual and how they personally relate to their experience. Some thrive by viewing their neurodivergence as a superpower, while others find more comfort in acknowledging both their strengths and struggles without labels.

What’s important is that we allow space for both perspectives. One person’s empowering language shouldn’t invalidate another’s lived experience. Instead of debating whether calling neurodivergence a superpower is right or wrong, perhaps the real question is:

Does the language we use help us accept and support ourselves fully—the strengths, the struggles, and everything in between?

What do you think? Do you find the term superpower empowering, or does it not sit right with you?